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Sociology What does studying Sociology involve ? Sociology offers a fascinating insight into the social world that we all inhabit. Unlike Psychology, the focus is not on the individual and what we understand about the mind, but on the social world and the structures of society. There are historical and political elements to the work that you will do as we look at the development of societies and social trends over time as well as considering different ‘perspectives’ on current society. These include an insight into Marxism, Feminism and other political philosophies and what they believe about the world around us. Many students find sociology intriguing for the sheer insight that they get into the modern family, education, religion and criminality, all of which are major areas of focus. An example of one the work that you would cover in Year 12 would be an analysis of ‘marriage’ and ‘divorce’, considering what we know about present trends and how they compare with the past. You would also consider what different theorists say about these areas – for example, one argument is that a rising divorce rate demonstrates that we now value marriage more than we did in the past! Others view it as the start of the end of society as we know it. Importantly, there are few right or wrong answers in Sociology: it is more a subject of competing theories. How will I know if I would be good at it ? Sociology is ideal for students who have a sound ability in English and enjoy thinking about and exploring new ideas and concepts. Unfortunately there is no obvious subject to compare it to at GCSE level – it really is unique. However, if you enjoyed GCSE History, or enjoyed some of the abstract ideas and ways of thinking that were part of the study of English Literature, it may well be for you. Modules that you will cover and assessment. The Family, Education, Religion, Crime and Deviance, Sociological Methodology. All of the modules above are assessed through examinations which are sat in the summer at the end of each year. There are no January modules before the summer exams there is no coursework in Sociology at Coombe. Exam board: AQA What skills will I develop and where could studying this subject lead ? Because all of the assessment in Sociology is through written assignments, you will develop your ability to write clearly and succinctly, both of which are extremely important skills. The subject is also theoretical and becomes more complex at A2 level, requiring that students develop their ability to manage abstract ideas and concepts, selecting, comparing and evaluating during the process; these are excellent general thinking skills in themselves as well as supporting the work that you would be covering in other subjects such as English, Politics, History and so on. Sociology is an excellent general A Level that works well as a group of subjects leading to university study in a very wide range of degrees, including the obvious areas of English, History, Philosophy, Languages, Law and so on. Obviously, you could read for a degree in Sociology itself ! Links www.aqa.org.uk This allows you to see the past papers and what the examiners want from you. www.s-cool.co.uk This site has loads of revision aids and sociological games to make work fun! www.socresonline.com This site gives you loads of different ideas and other people’s research. www.educationforum.co.uk/sociology This site has loads of revision ideas and is probably the best sociology and history website ever! Online Book List Visit Amazon to buy our recommended text books. If you choose to order books via Amazon please read their terms and conditions. Sociology AS: The complete Companion, Nelson Thornes. Sociology in Focus (2005) Causeway Press Ltd Letts Revision Guide: AS Sociology Collins Dictionary of Sociology Sociology Themes and Perspectives: Haralambos and Holborn; Collins Press. Sociology in Focus: Taylor et al; Causeway Press Ltd. Letts Revision Guide: A2 Sociology Downloads Sociology of Education
Sociology of Religion |
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