A/AS Sociology

A/AS Sociology

What is A/AS Level Sociology?
Sociology is the study of society and human social behaviour. Its aim is to investigate and explain what people do and why.

The sociologist looks at the institutions in society such as education, the mass media, the political system, the family and the legal system, as well as different groups such as women, the working class, young people and ethnic minorities and seeks to explain why things are as they are and how this affects the individual.

These investigations require a willingness to reject what is -obvious or -common sense and to go beneath the surface. The fascination of Sociology is that it makes us see our world in a new light and realise that things are not what they seem.

Is Sociology suitable for me?
Students indicate that the need to read in depth on current affairs and issues is very demanding, but enjoyable.

OESociology teaches you to open your ears and eyes which helps you open your mind!â€

Helen

OEAdults say teenagers think they know everything. Sociology helps me to argue my case.

Lucinda

OESociology broadens your mind and makes you question attitudes and systems you†ve always taken for granted. Even if you don't want to take it any further it's a liberating experience.

Hannah

How will I learn?
Lessons include a range of teaching styles from class debates to group presentations/videos and role play. There are lectures/seminars and class notes from acetates.

Topics include:

• The Mass Media (How does it affect us?)
• The Family (Is it a thing of the past?)
• Class/Gender/Ethnicity (How do these affect our lives?)
• Crime & Deviance (Is crime increasing?)
• World Sociology helps see all these things in context

In order to understand these issues in depth you will need to look at thinkers who have been influential to the modern world and understand and evaluate their theories. You will need to read widely. Newspapers, journals and novels will all help your understanding of social issues and there are many television programmes which also broaden understanding.

We go to Sociology Conferences where well-known sociologists and politicians tackle issues under study.

For each topic you will complete two research essays (occasionally timed) and some short answer questions. You will need to do 4 to 5 hours of study each week outside of class time. There are new books being placed in the Library regularly for your use and in the Learning Resource Centre you will find useful CD ROMs and the Internet to help keep you up to the minute on issues. There are people to help and support the technophobe.

How will I be assessed?
Coursework Year 1- 0%. Year 2 - 0%

The AS consists of two units, the first of which will look at the individual and society. The second unit look at culture and self. Both units will be tested by separate examination papers at the end of year one.

In year 2 (A level) you will go on to look at Crime and Deviance and World Sociology. These units are tested by two separate examination papers.

Progression
Sociology is a good preparation for study in Higher Education and for a wide variety of careers. A sociological background is of particular value for management, market research, teaching, law, journalism, administration, nursing, social work, the police and business.

Course costs
All students will be expected to provide their own textbooks, stationery, computer disks and calculators (where appropriate).

Costs are outlined below:

Essential: £30 for textbooks

Optional: £35 for magazine subscription, materials and trips (which are an optional extra)

If the costs of equipment, materials and trips may cause you financial hardship, there is the opportunity to apply for help from the College Access Fund.

Course: WJEC 2351/3351

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