Sociology

What board do we do? AQA, AS/A level code: 1191/2191

What is Sociology?  Sociology attempts to explain and understand how societies and groups operate and change, how groups influence the individual, how meanings and interpretations “construct reality” and how social life is influenced by the unintended consequences of human action. Sociologists challenge the taken-for-granted ideas and beliefs that are generally accepted as being true or “common knowledge”. This process can undermine prejudice and misconceptions, develop insights into behaviour, and change (or reinforce) attitudes. When assertions of fact are made, sociologists ask, “What is the evidence?” In A Level sociology, students will learn to develop a sociological imagination through examining society from a variety of perspectives that focus on social change, social order and meaning.

Which subjects combine well with Sociology? 
Psychology, Government and Politics, History, and Economics.

What can Sociology lead to?
A good grade in Sociology at A level is valued by universities and employers, since it requires the development of analytical skills and demonstrates the ability to evaluate social issues. This course also lays an appropriate foundation for further study of Sociology or related subjects in higher education.

AS Unit 1 (SCLY1): Families and Households
40% of AS, 20% of A Level
1 hour: 60 marks.

Students will answer five questions on the above topic.

AS Unit 2 (SCLY2): Education with Research Methods
60% of AS, 30% of A Level
2 hours: 90 marks.

Students will answer four questions on Education, one question on sociological research methods in context and four questions on research methods.

A2 Unit 3 (SCLY3): Beliefs in Society
20% of A Level
1 hour 30 minutes: 60 marks.

Students will answer two compulsory questions and one question from a choice of two.

A2 Unit 4 (SCLY4): Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods
30% of A Level
2 hours: 90 marks.

Candidates answer two questions on Crime and Deviance, two/three questions on sociological research methods in context and one question on theory and methods.

A variety of teaching and learning methods will include the use of interactive whiteboards, discussion and debate, student presentations, the internet, specific sites dedicated to student requirements, and lesson summaries.

Regular and robust assessment will occur under timed conditions at every stage of the course, set and marked by the lecturer.  The actual AQA exam papers are set and marked externally.  There is no coursework component.  The A level grade is based 100% on these external examinations.

The Sociology course will suit students with a desire to learn more about the structures and processes that create the social world.

Book List As & Intensive

* AS Sociology: The Complete Course for the AQA Specification: Rob Webb et al
(Napier Press: ISBN 978-0954007959)            

*A2 Sociology: The Complete Course for the AQA Specification: Rob Webb et al.
(Napier Press: ISBN 978-0954007966)