A Level Sociology
COURSE oVERVIEW
Sociology is the study of society, which includes the study of families and households, the education system, beliefs within society, and the impact of crime and deviance upon society. We investigate the role of social, economic, political, and cultural forces in shaping the lives of individuals today.
EXAMINATION BOARD: AQA
ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:
Grade 5 in GCSE English Language is preferred.
Why study A Level Sociology at Blackpool Sixth?
Sociology is a popular and academically demanding subject that requires a wide range of skills. Students enjoy the variety of activities in lessons and the frequent opportunities to take part in class discussions and engage in debates about current issues. This fascinating, contemporary course focuses on the interaction processes that occur between groups of people throughout our society and the impact that social structures have. Differing sociological perspectives offer varying explanations of human behaviour and you will explore and debate theories including Marxism and Feminism. A keen interest in world affairs and issues relating to class, gender, ethnicity, equality and prejudice is essential
“The function of sociology, as of every science, is to reveal that which is hidden.”
Pierre Bourdieu
How will I be taught?
Diverse range of teaching methods including collaborative learning; independent learning; flipped learning; and peer teaching
Teacher expertise
There is a wealth of knowledge in the Sociology department. Staff are experienced teachers that utilise years of AQA examining experience.
What skills will I develop?
- Essay writing
- Developing an argument with justification
- Analysis of quantitative and qualitative data
- Verbal communication
- Written communication
- Teamwork
- Presentation skills
- Evaluating sources
How will I be assessed?
100
%
What will you study and other information about Sociology A-Level
- First Year
- Families and households – why has there been an increase in divorce? Is the position of children better in society today than 100 years ago?
- Education – why are girls achieving higher than boys in education? What social and political changes have taken place in education over the last 100 years?
- Research methods – which is the best research method to use to investigate society? How do sociologists ensure they obtain truthful data for their research?
- Sociological theory – theories such as Marxism, feminism, and postmodernism.
- Second Year
- Beliefs in society – has there been a decline in religious beliefs in the UK? What motivates people to join new religious movements such as cults and sects?
- Crime and deviance – what motivates people to turn to crime? Is imprisonment effective?
- Debates in sociology – does sociology influence government laws and policies?
- Is sociology a science? Further study into sociological theory and methods – is society based on harmony or conflict?
- Equipment and Financial contributions
There is no requirement to purchase a textbook for sociology.
If students wish to purchase a resource to assist with their studies the recommended textbook is AQA A Level Sociology Book 1 by Rob Webb, Hal Westergaard, Keith Trobe, and Annie Townend (2015), ISBN: 978-0-954007- 91-1, approximately £25.
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Where does it lead?
A range of professions, predominantly working with people. Many of our students choose to continue sociology at university or specialise in certain fields such as criminology, women’s studies, social policy, education, or social work. Sociology is a popular subject for prospective teachers and journalists.
