AS Level Sociology (OCR)

AS Level Sociology (OCR)
Sociology is a very challenging and exciting subject. The aim of Sociology is to understand how societies work. It investigates the structures and cultures of different societies throughout the world and throughout history. It analyses the various institutions and systems found in a society such as:-The family, education, power and politics, crime and deviance, social class, ethnicity, gender and much more. We study the formation and interactions of certain groups in society, such as peer groups, gangs, families and pressure groups.

What will I be doing?
AS Level (First year of course)
Exploring socialisation, culture and identity
We study the different sources of identity in the contemporary UK. We examine the formation of culture and the role of socialisation in the creation of identities. We also consider the nature/nurture debate - are we the product of our genes or of society? We also explore the use of data-collection methods (how sociologists find out about social issues and problems).

Topics in socialisation, culture and identity
We will be studying the family and youth culture. We look at the changing roles of the family and within the family itself. Social trends in divorce and marriage are also explored. We examine a diverse range of family types from single-parent families and nuclear families to those living on Kibbutzim in Israel. We will also be looking at the role of youth culture in society, paying particular attention to various youth subcultures that exist in society. We will investigate issues surrounding youth crime and educational subcultures.

A2 Level (Second year of course)
Power and control
We will be studying the Sociology of Crime and deviance. We look at how crime is defined and measured and how this affects the trends and patterns of crime. We also explore the areas of victimisation and reasons why some people are more likely to be accused, arrested and convicted of crimes.

Exploring social inequality and difference
We study the areas of gender, class, ethnicity and age. Through these topics we explore the causes and implications of social inequality. We also study some of the sociological research that has been carried out in the area of social inequality.

How will I be assessed?
All formal assessment is by exam. However, throughout the course, you will also be assessed by your teacher. This informal assessment will consist of written work, project work, presentations and discussions. You will also be given plenty of opportunity to complete past exam papers.

Where can I go after completing this course?
Most degree courses include some Sociology: There are also many degree courses where A level Sociology will be really helpful, if not essential: Sociology, Criminology, Law, Psychology, Anthropology. Sociology opens doors to many areas of employment: Counsellor, Community worker, Probation Officer, Social worker, Charity fundraiser, teacher.