Sociology A-level

Learn how different aspects of life influence our identities with A-level Sociology. Sociology is about how we live our lives today - it is the study of society. This means it is useful for a number of careers in different areas including the public sector, journalism and business.

Tackle issues such as class, gender, ethnicity, age and family. In the second year you study crime and deviance, inequality and advanced research methods.

You follow the OCR specification.

First year (AS)
• Unit 1: Exploring Socialisation, Culture and Identity
• Unit 2: Topics in Socialisation, Culture and Identity

Second year (A2)
• Unit 3: Power and Control
• Unit 4: Exploring Social Inequality and Difference

You learn in a variety of ways, typically through discussion, group work, independent study, traditional essays, reading and research tasks. There is a balance between challenge and support. You play an active part in your learning and there is a strong focus on your individual learning needs.

Classes take place over four days a week between 9am and 5pm. We expect our students to be fully committed to their studies and attend all timetabled sessions. In addition, you have the opportunity to attend trips and visits according to the needs of individual subjects. There are many enrichment opportunities, enabling you to extend your learning beyond the bounds of your chosen subjects.

Formal assessment is through examinations. The examination periods are in May/June. There are a range of regular assignments, essays and class based assessments to help you develop your study skills for the next educational step. Individual learning targets are set each term and you receive regular feedback on your progress in meeting these targets.

You gain an understanding of the sociological perspective and detailed knowledge of how our society works. You also develop the skills necessary for further academic study, such as strong report writing, essay writing and study skills, including presentation skills.

Improve the wider skills vital for success in further study or employment, including self-confidence, speaking in front of others, working with others, taking responsibility and managing your time. You benefit from individual support, including clear advice about higher education and careers.

6 x C grades at GCSE. There are subject specific criteria for some subjects, for this subject you will need GCSE English Language grade C.

With three A-levels the possibilities are endless. You can progress to higher education to study a variety of different subjects at degree-level. A-levels also offer a high standard of education which many employers require as part of their entry criteria onto training programmes. Sociology opens many doors. It meshes very well with work in the public sector. The writing and analytical skills developed also combine well with a career in journalism, business and a wide variety of other professions.

You will require a core text book which will be recommended during the first week of term. You will also need pens, A4 lined paper and a file.