Why Study Sociology?

 

This course delves into the structures, processes and issues that shape our world, from family dynamics and education systems to crime, deviance and social inequality.

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• Engaging Content: Study real-world issues and current events that impact your daily life, developing your sociological awareness.

• Critical and Reflective Thinking: Develop analytical skills to understand and critique societal norms and policies in our contemporary world.

• Diverse Perspectives: Gain insights into different cultures, communities and social groups.

• Future Opportunities: Open doors to higher level education and possible careers in social work, education, research, law, journalism and many others.

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Course Structure

 

The course is divided into 2 modules at AS and a further 2 at A2.

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Year 13

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AS Unit 1 - Acquiring Culture

• Section A – What is culture and socialisation?

• Section B – Families and Households

 

AS Unit 2 - Understanding Society and Methods of Sociological Enquiry

• Section A – Research Methods

• Section B – Society through the lens of Education

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Year 14

 

A2 Unit 3 - Power and Control

• Crime and Deviance

 

A2 Unit 4 - Social Inequality and Applied Methods of Sociological Enquiry

• Section A - Applied Research Methods

• Section B - Social Inequality

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Who should study sociology?

 

Sociology is a great subject for students who are curious about how society works and want to understand the deeper reasons behind human behaviour, social structures and cultural norms. It will interest anyone who wants to make a difference by understanding and addressing social problems.

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Here are some qualities and interests that make someone well-suited to study sociology:

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• Curiosity about people and society: If you're interested in why people behave the way they do, how societies are organised, or how social issues like inequality, identity, education and culture arise and evolve, sociology will interest you.

• Critical thinking: Sociology involves analysing complex social phenomena, questioning assumptions and evaluating evidence. It will require you to read and analyse sociological texts and interpret data.

• Open-mindedness: A good sociology student is willing to consider different perspectives and challenge their own beliefs.

• Strong communication skills: Writing clear well-argued essays by discussing sociological theories, and presenting ideas are key to studying sociology.

• Interest in current events and social justice: If you care about issues like inequality, race, gender, education, crime or globalisation, sociology provides tools to explore and understand them.

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You might enjoy sociology if you have enjoyed subjects like History, Religious Studies or Geography, and enjoy sharing your opinions and debating current affairs.

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Assessment In Sociology

 

EXAM BOARD WJEC

 

• AS Unit 1 - Acquiring Culture (1 hour 15 minutes exam) 37.5% AS and 15% of A-level

• AS Unit 2 - Understanding Society and Methods of Sociological Enquiry (2 hours exam) 62.5% of AS and 25% of A-level

 

• A2 Unit 3 - Power and Control (2 hours exam) 25% of A-level

• A2 Unit 4 - Social Inequality and Applied Methods of Sociological Enquiry (2 hours 15 minutes exam) 35% of A-level

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All examination papers are a combination of short structured answers and extended writing questions.