Sociology

Sociology

GCE Advanced Level AS/A2

Course Content

Unit 1: Youth Culture

Unit 2: Education research methods

Unit 3: Understanding Crime

Unit 4: Understanding Social Division: World Sociology
N.B. At A2 Level synopticity must be present in answers on both units.

How it is Taught
The subject offers an informal yet supportive environment in which to study. Teachers are always available for consultation and guidance. A variety of teaching and learning styles is employed in class, ranging from teacher led to group work and individual presentations. Students are encouraged to take an active role in class discussions and must be sufficiently motivated to carry out preparatory work for class.

Examination Details Unit 1 : 1 hour : 1st Year June : 40% of AS Mark

Unit 2 : 1 1/2 hours : 1st Year June : 60% of AS Mark

Unit 3 : 1 1/2 hours : 2nd Year January : 40% of A2 Mark

Unit 4 : 2 hours : 2nd Year June : 60% of A2 Mark

Useful/Common Subject Combinations
Sociology combines well with many other subjects, fitting equally well with either the sciences or humanities. Popular combinations include Law, Business Studies, Media Studies, Biology, English, Psychology, History, Geography and Health & Social Care.

Careers and HE Information
Sociology is useful in a wide variety of occupations and degree courses and especially in teaching, nursing, social work, police, probation, advertising or journalism. It is particularly relevant to criminology, psychology, anthropology and social policy. Many degree courses involve some Sociology, e.g. Medicine, Politics, Law and Business Studies.

Other Relevant Information
Both employers and universities value the skills that sociology develops in students. Of particular relevance are the skills of background research, interpretation of data, increased social awareness and critical evaluation.

Among the many benefits of studying Sociology are that students are encouraged to

• Develop the essential knowledge and understanding of central aspects of sociological thought and methods
• Demonstrate the application of a range of skills
• Consider the integration of sociological themes
  - socialisation, culture and identity
  - social differentiation, power and stratification