Sociology A level

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Sociology allows students to investigate and critically analyse the social
world. In their study of society students will examine how society shapes
their behaviour, beliefs and identity. They will discover how social
institutions such as the education system, media, political parties, law,
families and religion influence the process of identity formation and how
people think and act. The subject will enable students to develop skills
of research, analysis and evaluation together with the ability to, either
written or verbally, communicate ideas and theories clearly, effectively and
concisely.

A-Level Course Content

Year 1: Education with methods in context
Students begin the Sociology A-Level by looking at basic concepts and themes in the study of society such as socialisation, culture, identity and social differentiation. After studying these concepts, the first year is spent considering the role and function of the education system in the UK. Students will examine, compare, analyse and evaluate the different educational achievements of different social groups e.g. by social class, gender and ethnicity in contemporary society. They will study the relationships and processes in schools; and significance of government policies on the education system.

Research Methods & Topics in Sociology
In addition, students will apply sociological research methods to their study of education whilst also looking at qualitative methods of research. They will examine the distinction between primary and secondary data and the relationship between different sociological methods. They will also look at a range of other issues including ethical issues, the nature of ‘social facts’;
consensus and conflict theories; modernity and post-modernity and debates about subjectivity, objectivity and the relationship between Sociology and social policy.

Topics in Sociology - Families in Households
Students will also study the relationship of the family to the state and influences such as the economy and state policies. They will examine changing patterns of marriage, cohabitation, separation, divorce, childbearing and the life course, including the sociology of personal life, and the diversity of contemporary family and household structures. They will study gender roles and
the nature of childhood linking to demographic trends such as life expectancy, migration and globalisation.

Year 2: Topics in Sociology - Beliefs in Society
During the second year students will study Beliefs in Society where they will discuss issues such as “Is Sociology a Science?” and the significance of religion and religiosity in the contemporary world. They will investigate the relationship between social change and social stability, and religious beliefs, practices and organisations. Students will also investigate religious
organisations, including cults, sects, denominations, churches and New Age movements, emphasising the relationship between different social groups and religious/ spiritual organisations and movements.

Crime & Deviance with Theory & Methods
Alongside the study of beliefs in Society, students will also investigate Crime and Deviance to discover the differences between crime and deviance and how they are linked to social order and social control. Students will study patterns and trends in crime; globalisation and crime in contemporary society; the media and crime; green crime; human rights and state crimes; crime
control, surveillance, prevention and punishment, victims, and the role of the criminal justice system and other agencies in society.

Staff Contact
Miss C. Lovatt (Head of Social Sciences) - c.lovatt@wymcol.org

GCSE English Level 5 or above.

Sociology students are found in a range of occupations such as the social services, education, the probation service, the media and law. Many of the skills acquired can be transferred to other occupations such as marketing, research and departments in local and central government.