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 4 in GCSE English Language is preferred.
Studying A level sociology
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
- 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
- Education – why are girls achieving higher than boys in education? Why do working class children underperform in comparison to middle class children? What policy 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?
- Families and households – why has there been an increase in divorce? Is the position of children better in society today than 100 years ago? Why has there been an increase in different family types in our society?
- Second Year
- Crime and deviance – what motivates people to turn to crime? Is imprisonment effective? Why are there so few women in prison?
- 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?
- Theories and debates in sociology – a deep dive into all our favourite theories of Marxism, feminism, functionalism, interactionism and postmodernism. Considering debates such as does sociology influence government laws and policies?
- 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.
- Trips and enrichment opportunities
We offer a variety of enrichment opportunities designed to broaden students’ horizons and enhance their learning experiences. This includes local university visits that provide insight into higher education options and future career paths, giving students a firsthand look at potential job roles and future academic opportunities. Additionally, we have provided exciting opportunities for our students to attend trips to various cultural and historical destinations, such as London, Krakow and New York, where students can immerse themselves in diverse cultures, historical landmarks, and unique learning experiences. These opportunities aim to inspire and prepare students for their future academic and professional journeys.
Where does it lead?
Many of our students go on to study sociology, or sociology related courses at some of the UK’s top universities including Oxford, Manchester, Durham, York, Lancaster and Leeds. Sociology will open a range of avenues in numerous employment areas. Many students go onto teaching, the police, social work, legal professions, the civil service, local government, and social research.
