Sociology

Overview
We use a variety of teaching methods; lectures, discussion, student presentations and role-play, video material, study packs. Students must be prepared to read widely around the subject and to undertake independent study utilising the press, journals, television and radio.

Course Outline
AS Level
Unit 1: Covers:
- connections between different substantive areas of sociology.
- the different family structures over time and place and current trends regarding marriage and divorce.
Unit 2: Covers:
- the relationships between class gender and ethnicity and educational achievement
- recent reforms to the educational system.

A2 Level
Unit 3: Covers:
- critical awareness of contemporary social processes.
- the study of beliefs in society.
- why some societies are clerical and others secular and the extent to which religion can act as both a conservative force and as an agent of social change.
Unit 4: Covers:
- the nature of sociological thought.
- the methods of social enquiry.
- crime and deviance.

Assessment
No Coursework
Examination (100%)
Examining Board – AQA.

Special Entry Requirements
None.

Prohibited Options
None.

Career and Progression Opportunities
The subject is appropriate for those intending to study the social sciences at University. Major retailers, the media and the Police Force perceive Sociology as a useful discipline. It is a key subject for those who wish to follow careers in the Social Services.

Teaching Methods
The department utilises a variety of teaching methods to deliver the specifications. These include lectures, group work, presentations, simulation exercises and IT-based activities.

Course Activities
Students are given the opportunity to attend a variety of courses and conferences during their two years of Advanced Level study.
 
Cost Implications
There are no cost implications.

Complementary Subjects or Enrichment Courses
Sociology combines well with other Social Science courses such as Psychology, Politics and Media Studies

Other Information
Students taking Health and Social Care may find elements of this course useful. It also combines successfully with subjects such as Politics, Psychology and Philosophy.

This information is correct for September 2012 entry.