Sociology
Ms M Porter – mporter@sackvilleschool.org.uk
Sociology is the study of society, and of human behaviour in society. We investigate topics such as social inequality, culture and identity, the mass media and globalisation. We explore how people’s gender identity, ethnicity, sexuality and social class can impact on their life chances. We also study key sociological theories such as Functionalism, Marxism and Feminism, and study the research methods that sociologists use.
This is a new course with a strong focus on contemporary society and current sociological research. Those who have studied GCSE sociology will find plenty that is fresh and new, enabling your sociological imagination to flourish. A Level sociology will help you to answer questions such as:
- Why are some young people drawn into criminal subcultures?
- Why is there still a gender pay gap?
- Why are some social groups over-represented in the criminal justice system?
- What impact is globalisation having on our social networks?
- Why has organised religion lost its hold over many people’s beliefs and values?
If you don’t take what you see or hear for granted, if you like to investigate problems for yourself, if you enjoy debating contemporary issues and challenging ideas, then sociology is for you. We aim to send you out into the world ready to challenge and change it!
Paper 1: Socialisation, culture and identity
Paper 2: Researching social inequalities
Paper 3: Debates in contemporary society
Three 2-hour exams
Sociology is a well-respected, academic subject, which combines well with other social sciences, humanities and languages. You will develop skills that are highly prized by universities and employers: critical thinking, the ability to analyse and evaluate complex information and reach conclusions, effective written and verbal communication.
A Level sociology can lead on to exciting degree courses such as criminology and anthropology, as well as sociology itself. It is a great choice for anyone considering professions such as teaching, nursing, social or market research, law, human resources, communications or policy work in government, NGOs or charities.
