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Sociology

STATEMENT OF INTENT FOR SOCIOLOGY

Sociology students at Charters School will be curious and motivated to learn more about key sociological issues within British society. They will develop a greater understanding and awareness of social, political, legal and educational changes in society and their implications. They will develop a greater sense of tolerance and understanding of class, gender and ethnic diversity and differences in society and of the role and purpose of key institutions.

This means:

They will have a strong understanding of the key institutions.
They will explore and examine the impact and influence of key institutions in understanding society.
They will be able to identify, critically analyse and evaluate different sociological approaches within Sociology.
They will examine and critically evaluate an array of investigative techniques when carrying out sociological research.
They will be encouraged to think independently, open their minds, question social structures and be aware of contemporary social issues.

SUMMARY OF CURRICULUM

A level Sociology is a popular choice with sixth form students and follows the AQA syllabus. The A level requires that, over the two years, students study Education with Theory and Methods, Topics in Sociology and Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods. Students learn about socialisation, culture and identity whilst exploring social differentiation, power and stratification, with a central focus on contemporary UK society and changes within a globalised context. Students will also examine the significance of conflict and consensus theories within the study of Sociology and learn about social structures and key institutions in society, social action and the role of values. Students will develop an in-depth theoretical, practical and analytical understanding of how society can be studied and investigated thorough research methods. The course not only compliments a wide variety of other A levels choices offered at Charters it also provides a solid foundation for anyone seeking to study Sociology at university or enter the labour market. Sociology encourages tolerance and explores diversity, learning about choice and the fluid nature of changes within society. Sociology also develops transferable skills such as self-confidence, effective verbal and written communication, critical analysis, evaluation and an awareness of social, political and economic changes in society and their global impact.

COURSE DETAILS

100% EXAMINATION

Paper 1: Education with Theory and Methods (2 hours – 33%)

Paper 2: Topics in Sociology: Beliefs in Society and Families and Households (2 hours – 33%)

Paper 3: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods (2 hours – 33%)

KEY STAGE 5 ENTRY REQUIREMENTS

The minimum entry requirements for Charters Sixth Form can be viewed here

EXAM BOARD: AQA

BE INSPIRED

Take a look around the links below to find our where this exciting subject could lead.

Complementary Subjects

Sociology compliments all A Level subjects, especially those which require an analytical way of thinking. It particularly compliments History, Philosophy, Psychology and English. Research methods is also focused upon in Sociology which is beneficial for other subjects which require independent research such as Geography.

Future Opportunities

Many students of Sociology go on to study not only Sociology at university, but also a range of other courses such as Law, Journalism, and Social Policy. The subject helps develop a range of excellent academic skills, from independent research to detailed analysis of evidence, that will prepare you for many university courses and careers. Sociology can unlock doors in various careers, such as in education, healthcare, law, government and politics and research.

Be Inspired by Exploring Further

BOOKS

Chavs: The Demonization of the Working Class, Owen Jones

In modern Britain, the working class has become an object of fear and ridicule. From Little Britain's Vicky Pollard to the demonization of Jade Goody, media and politicians alike dismiss as feckless, criminalized and ignorant a vast, underprivileged swathe of society whose members have become stereotyped by one, hate-filled word: chavs.

Living Dolls, Natasha Walke

Empowerment, liberation, choice. Once the watchwords of feminism, these terms have now been co-opted by a society that sells women an airbrushed, highly sexualised and increasingly narrow vision of femininity. Drawing on a wealth of research and personal interviews, Living Dolls is a straight-talking, passionate, and important book that makes us look afresh at women and girls, at sexism and femininity - today.

A Beginners Guide to Social Theory, Shaun Best

This book is accessible, as a beginner′s guide should be, but without an over-simplification of the arguments. It should prove an immensely durable text for generations of students to come.