Sociology
Centre
Clarendon College
Content
For those who are interested in the nature of human beings and the society in which they live, this is a stimulating and rewarding course. It will change your views about the nature of the society in which you live. Whereas Psychology focuses upon the individual and what influences and shapes the behaviour of the individual, Sociology concentrates on the way in which individuals interact with their society. In Year 12 you will study the Family and Education; the two key processes which attempt to fit the individual into society. In Year 13 you will move on to consider how power is distributed and operated through Power and Politics. You will also study the changing nature of Crime and Deviance and society's response to it. In both years you will also investigate how Sociologists carry out their research and the nature of Scooby itself.
Special Features
The best way to learn about research techniques is by actually doing research. There will be opportunities in both Years 12 and 13, therefore, to carry out your studies linked to the topics in the course. This will include classroom observation, the use of questionnaires and interviews as well as visits to the law courts and to parliament.
Entry
You will need 5 A* - C grades at GCSE including English and Humanities.
Attendance
One year to AS level and a further year to complete the A2 Level.
Assessment
At both AS and A2 assessment is now entirely based on written examinations. Each year you will sit two papers. The papers on Education and Crime and Deviance are longer because they also include questions on sociological theories and methods.
Moving on
Sociology provides an excellent basis for a range of Higher Education courses and careers. Apart from Social and Probation work, it can also lead to Teaching or a variety of careers in private industry. The skills it develops of analysis, interpretation and evaluation are useful everywhere. It also develops a critically informed approach to the society in which you live.
