Sociology

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AS AND A2 SOCIOLOGY

Before you begin any course at A level or A2 level it is wise to give very careful consideration to your reasons for studying the subject. As Sociology is new to most of you, this paget will provide an outline of what to expect. You may wish to ask the teaching staff involved more detailed questions: Mr. MacKinnon, Mrs. Shaw and Mrs. Stewart are available to help.

What is Sociology?

At its simplest Sociology can be defined as the study of human society and social behaviour. The majority of us live in family groups, experience school from an early age and have knowledge of parts of a wider community. We are familiar with some of the subject areas which are the concern of the sociologist. Nevertheless in order to appreciate the nature of society and understand human behaviour, we need to acquire particular kinds of knowledge and develop specialist skills in much the same way as in other disciplines.

Sociologists critically examine and question that which appears as obvious or common-sense. As Berger expresses it “the fascination of Sociology lies in the fact that its perspective makes us see in a new light the very world in which we have lived all our lives. … It can be said that the first wisdom of Sociology is this “things are not what they seem” (Berger, P., 1966, Invitation to Sociology, Harmondsworth, Penguin).

Course Content

If you decide to study Sociology you will examine the following six units.

Year 12

AS Module 1 The Family
AS Module 2 Education and Sociological Methods

Year 13

A2 Module 3 Beliefs in Societry and Mass Media
A2 Module 4Crime and Deviance and Theory and Methods

Each module has its own examination. You will not be required to do coursework.

Why study Sociology?

It is a constant intellectual challenge and demands a mature, critical approach.

It helps students to develop analytical skills.

It enables students to develop the key skill of communication.

Sociology is relevant to most other subject areas.

Sociology has relevance for many careers, media and journalism, law, medical and social welfare, advertising, teaching, human resources, management.

Sociology brings about a personal but objective awareness of the world of others and of self.

Entry Requirements

At least 5 GCSE passes at grades A* - C