Sociology
Sociology is the scientific study of society and human behaviour. It focuses on social relationships and interactions between people and is concerned with the influence of institutions on our behaviour such as the influence of our families and the education system.
Sociology is concerned with describing and explaining the patterns of difference, deprivation and conflict in society and addresses key concerns within society including racial, class and gender inequalities. It encourages students to think critically about the world they live in and to examine society from a range of different perspectives.
Entry Requirements
A Level Sociology does not require any prior knowledge of Sociology. However, the course is assessed through essay-based questions therefore there is a requirement for students to have a good grasp of the English language. To be successful in the course, it is useful for students to have a well-rounded knowledge of current events occurring in society.
The general Thornleigh Sixth Form entry criteria will be applied.
What will I Study?
The A Level introduces students to the fundamentals of Sociology including sociological perspectives, research processes and key debates including: micro vs macro and consensus vs conflict. This course encourages students to develop skills such as critical analysis, independent thinking and research skills.
Paper 1: Education with Theory and Methods (Education, Methods in Context and Theory and Methods).
Paper 2: Topics in Sociology (Families and Households and Mass Media).
Paper 3: Crime and Deviance with Theory and Methods (Crime and Deviance, Theory and Methods).
Which exam board is used and how will I be assessed?
The exam board is AQA.
Click here to access the exam board webpage for this specification.
There will be 3 exam papers at the end of the course.
Each paper is 2 hours long and worth 80 marks.
Paper one consists of short answer and extended writing questions.
Paper two consists of extended writing questions.
Paper three consists of short answer and extended writing questions.
Students are assessed on the following assessment objectives across all three papers: A01 knowledge and understanding skills, A02 application skills and A03 analysis and evaluation skills.
Where could this subject take me?
Studying Sociology opens up a range of careers in areas such as welfare, education and social research. The traditional route for Sociology graduates is often social work or a job within the public sector. However, many Sociology graduates go into a wider range of occupations. Careers linked specifically to a Sociology degree include: Teaching, Youth Workers, Police officers, Marketing executives, advice workers and social researchers. Careers in which a Sociology degree may be useful include: Journalism, Special Educational Needs Coordinator, Law, Probation officer and Civil Service Administrator.
How can I get ahead in this subject
Popular Sociology books include:
Sociology for AQA volume 1 and 2 by Ken Browne
Tutor2u AQA A-Level revision guides
The Color purple by Alice Walker
Chavs: The demonization of the working class by Owen Jones
Gang leader for a day by Sudhir Venkatesh
Places to visit include:
The local Crown Court
Shrewsbury Prison
International Slavery Museum, Liverpool
Good podcasts include:
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