The course develops students’ analytical and investigative skills as they question the beliefs and perceptions surrounding them. Sociology is extremely useful in contemporary life in understanding why things are as they are. It is also an advantage for students pursuing careers in; Social Work, Health and Welfare, the Criminal justice System, Teaching, Economics and the Media.
Sociology
| Exam Type: | Linear 2 year A-Level |
| Exam Board: | AQA |
About the Course
Sociology is the study of society and people. It explores the relationships forged between the individual and society and looks at the role of institutions like the family and media in influencing behaviour of individuals.
Your culture, your family and your friends also help shape your identity, and in sociology we explore what it means to be a boy or a girl and how we learn gender appropriate behaviour. What happens if we do not behave appropriately? What happens if we question authority? Why do we follow rules? In what ways are we socialised to be controlled?
The study of sociology encourages students to think independently, to open their minds and question social structures and developments. Through creative learning involving project work and external visits students are expected to develop debating, explanation, analysis and evaluation skills, all the while improving their literacy through extended essay writing.
It is expected that students will have achieved a Grade 6 in GCSE English Language.
This course will allow candidates to acquire the essential knowledge and understanding of central aspects of sociological thought and methods, together with the application of a range of skills. It has also been designed to allow the core sociological themes of social inequality and power to be integrated within every topic. Specifically you will focus on the key aspects of modern society; Education, Family, Religion and Crime, as well as gaining an in-depth understanding of how Sociologists research such areas and the methods and designs, different theoretical perspectives prefer.
By examination only
A-Level – Three Exam Papers
2 hours each
- Paper 1 – Education and Methods in Context
- Paper 2 – Option Topics Paper (Families & Households and Beliefs in Society)
- Paper 3 – Crime & Deviance and Theory & Methods
