Why study Sociology?

Sociology is an exciting subject that challenges your everyday experiences. It is the study of the relationship between the individual and society. Have you ever wondered why people exhibit certain behaviour? How do we become the people that we are? Sociology provides an opportunity to develop a better understanding of the social world, by examining social influences, such as, families, schools, friends, and the media. Consideration of how and why such groups and institutions function enables students to explore how individuals both create society and are created by it.

This demanding course aims to develop valuable academic and social skills. It is highly valued and prepares students for a variety of courses in Higher Education which include Medicine, Law, Politics, Criminology, Social Policy planning and Journalism to name but a few. In fact, any career that involves the interaction of people is one that would benefit from sociological insight! Critical awareness, political literacy and informed opinion are encouraged with the ultimate aim of developing the whole person.

What will I study?

AS Level Units

Unit One - Families and Households; Health; Mass Media.

(worth 40% of total AS and 20% of total A Level) 1 hour paper

Unit Two - Education; Health; Sociological Methods.

(worth 60% of total AS and 30% of total A Level) 2 hour paper

A Level Units

Unit Three - Global Development; Mass Media; Beliefs in Society; Power & Politics.   

(worth 20% of total A Level) 1 hour 30 minutes paper

Unit Four - Stratification and Differentiation; Theory & Methods

(worth 30% of total A Level) 2 hour paper.

While concentrating on the Sociology of Modern Britain, the course encourages comparison with other societies in both contemporary and historical terms. We offer a diverse teaching experience utilising IT, debates, quizzes, websites, personal research and deliver this with an enthusiastic drive. This variety of approaches also includes the use of seminar work, appropriate documentaries, current affairs programmes and visiting speakers. Students are expected to read widely, participate in class discussions and to draw upon their own experience, in order to be active in the learning process. Some opinions may be challenged and controversial ideas may be the basis of discussion. Visits to Sixth Form Sociology Conferences provide a stimulating alternative learning situation and essential information about examination techniques.

Contact Sociology Department: jarrowsmith@fortismere.org.uk