Sociology

Sociology is the study of society but sociologists cannot agree on the type of society that we live in. For example, is it still a male dominated world? Does social class still matter? Is the internet changing the way that we live? What is the best way of testing these debates?

The AS Course explores the diversity and changes in relationships, marriage, divorce and childhood. We will also examine the changing role of the education system and competing explanations for differences in pupil exam results.

The A2 Course explores the role of religion and the growth of other beliefs (such as conspiracy theories, alternative medicine and horoscopes) and the impact of religion across the world since 9/11. The final module explores the causes of and solutions to crime and deviance. Sociology is a popular and highly interesting subject and we have an outstanding record of results in the subject.

AS Units:
Unit 1 Families and Households

• Written Paper: 1 hour. Weighting: 40% of total AS / 20% of total A Level marks

• Written Paper: 2 hours. Weighting: 60% of total AS / 30% of total A Level marks

• Written Paper: 1 hour 30 minutes - Weighting: 20% of total A Level marks

• Written Paper: 2 hours - Weighting: 30% of total A Level marks

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:  A grade C or better in GCSE English Language is required.An interest in news and current affairs will be more than useful.        

EXTRA FEATURES: Students have the opportunity to attend conferences with leading sociologists and examiners in London. Half price subscription to Sociology Review magazine is available to Sandown students. One-to-one and small group additional support is available in the ‘Sociology Surgery’. 

POSSIBLE PROGRESSION: Sociology is accepted as an A level by all major universities. It is useful preparation for any course or career involving people, research or problem solving. It is particularly useful for careers such as law, media, criminology, education, business and public sector management, health, marketing, housing, civil service, local government, youth work, social work and  the police .   

SUGGESTED SUBJECT COMBINATIONS:  Sociology combines well with any other subject or course. There are useful overlaps with Psychology, History, Media, Law, Business Studies, English, Philosophy, Politics and the Sciences. Sociology has recently featured on Cambridge University’s list of recommended A Level subjects.   

TEACHER CONTACT: Mr G. Clarke 409197 This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it