A Level Sociology
Sociology can be best understood as a study of the changing world. Within the topic we seek to explain broad ideas, such as; why certain roles are ‘gender-specific’, why people commit crimes and what attracts people to join cults.
TOP COURSE HIGHLIGHTS
- Study criminology topics
- Specialist lecturers
- Debate current affairs
- Small class sizes
- Fascinating issues
Introduction to criminology
This course offers a good introduction into criminology as well as other aspects of studying society. We explore the problems caused by social inequality in terms of gender, ethnicity and class. This often links to significant current affairs which means this subject is always developing in new and interesting ways.
thought provoking
You will be able to apply your own life experiences of education and family to the course. Many of the topics we cover are extremely thought provoking including modern day slavery, racism in schools and the decline of religion in western society.
expert lecturers
Expert lecturers who know their subject and have experience developing learners’ written skills and powers of analysis.
WHY CHOOSE THIS COURSE?
Sociology is arguably one of the most relevant topics in contemporary society. This subject will broaden your mind and provide you with the ability to think critically, a skill that is highly valued at university and in employment. We identify various social inequalities and ongoing consequences of these. We discuss what power is, who has it and how it impacts our lives. There will be consideration of the individual experience and its existence within wider society. An interest in current affairs is essential to this subject and will enrich your educational experience. You will learn to think critically and independently about society and your place in it, gain the tools to think for yourself, and develop an informed understanding of the world around you.
A Level Sociology will introduce you to points of view on society, including those which promote conservative values (Functionalism), to those which argue for change (Marxism and Feminism). In Sociology much of what we investigate is open to interpretation; the information will be presented to your group and via discussions and debates, you will be encouraged to reach your own opinion.
WHAT WILL I LEARN?
During the first year of the course students will be introduced to the key sociological perspectives; Marxism, Functionalism, Feminism and Postmodernism. These perspectives will then be applied to the Education and Families and Households units. During the second year of study, the course covers Crime and Deviance, Beliefs and Sociology Theory. Research Methods will be covered in both years of the course. Two core themes run throughout the course, socialisation, culture and identity and social differentiation, power and stratification. The focus is on UK society today, with consideration given to the impact of globalisation on our society.
WHERE WILL IT TAKE ME?
A qualification in Sociology is highly valued by many universities and employers alike. Sociology is also an excellent subject to complement many courses, such as English, Psychology, Politics, Economics, History and Education. Studying Sociology opens the door to a fantastic range of interesting and rewarding careers.
Sociology will teach you a range of skills including critical thinking and using evidence to support an argument. The objective and rigorous nature of this subject ensures a range of careers, such as management, human resources, social work, the civil service, the criminal justice system, national or local government and law.
You will be formally examined on each unit that you study. The examinations are traditional and essay-based and are sat at the end of the second year. There are three formal exams, each lasting two hours.
Five GCSEs at Grade 4 or above with a Grade 5 in English.
We encourage all students to read widely and conduct their own research into society in particular in relation to the units you will study. Support is provided in class and on a one-to-one basis as required.
Awarding Body: AQA
