Sociology

Course summary

Sociology offers a distinct and highly illuminating perspective on human behaviour. Learning to be a sociologist means taking a step back from our own personal interpretations of the world, to look at the social influences which shape our life choices – from when, or whether, to have children to why people abide by or challenge laws. Studying sociology also helps you to understand and appreciate cultural differences and similarities, a very useful skill in our increasingly globalised world. A Level Sociology works well alongside other humanities and social science A Level subjects such as History, Geography and Psychology but also complements the sciences, Business Studies, Economics and art subjects or works within a multidisciplinary approach to A Level choices. Students will critically evaluate sociological theories in regard to crime and punishment; the changing nature of family, childhood and demography; religion, secularisation and new religious movements such as cults and the New Age; and theories in regard to the purpose of education and reasons for varied levels of achievement across social groups. All topics are referenced to sociological perspectives, theories, research methods and government social policies.