A-Level Sociology

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Sociology gives students the opportunity to study the social world and equips them with the appropriate skills and knowledge needed to be able to understand and explain the societal impact on an individual�s life chances. The curriculum is designed and delivered to encourage our students to challenge assumptions and develop their societal awareness. They will also develop skills and methods to investigate and communicate, providing key skills that are valuable for any field of employment that involves working with people, from careers in the public sector to media and business.

Families and households: changing patterns of family life, childhood, functions of the family, gender roles, and social policy Education: education policy, theories of the role of education in society, class, gender and ethnic differences in achievement Media: media content and audiences, representation of social groups, new media, culture and globalisation Crime and deviance: theories of crime, social patterns of crime, victims, prevention and punishment, global crime Research methods: surveys, interviews, observation, secondary sources Sociological theories: sociological views such as feminism, functionalism and postmodernism

In Sociology lessons, students engage in a range of learning activities including individual and group work, discussions and quizzes. Students are encouraged to discuss contemporary issues in society such as why people commit crime, or why social class affects educational achievement. Sociology is a subject that develops critical and analytical thinking skills so students are encouraged to read, analyse and discuss sociological research and theories. Students are supported in developing their essay writing and evaluation skills. In addition, the department invites professional sociologists to talk to students about their research into society.