Sociology at Saint George's

Studying Sociology allows students to examine some of the ways in which our behaviour and attitudes are shaped by being part of society. We look at the effects that education, health care, media, religion and the police have on us and the effects that we have on them. Sociology also gives the opportunity for a consideration of modern Britain - the ways it has changed through the 20th century, what it is like now in the 21st century, and what it may be like in the future. In this area we particularly look at identity, gender, ethnicity and class.

Students will be provided with key texts but other books, particularly revision guides, will be recommended and students may like to purchase them. It is helpful for students to read newspapers regularly. A variety of teaching methods and materials are used including discussion and seminars, videos and magazine articles. Attention is also paid to study skills and revision techniques.

Sociology is a useful subject if you are thinking of working in any of a variety of areas including heath care, education, law, civil service and social work. Being familiar with sociological ideas can help in any area of employment, unemployment and leisure, as you become involved in organisations and wider society.

Sociology AS and A Level

We use the AQA Examining Board

Students do not need to have previously studied any particular subjects but they will need to have gained at least 5 A-Cs at GCSE, including English at C or above.

The topics you will study include: AS Education How we learn about life What’s school for? Government Policies Relationships in School Why some people fail at school Sociological Methods Health How illness is defined differently Why poor people get ill more Why we do what doctors say

A2 Religion What is religion for? Different religious groups Why people are more religious Is religion dying out? Sociological Theories and Methods Stratification Why are some people rich? Class, Gender, Ethnicity & Age

The Exams AS There are 2 1 hour and 15 minute exams and a coursework task. A2 There is a 1 hour and 30 minute exam and coursework. You will have to do a short date response question and an essay in the exam. A third 1 hour and 30 minute exam has a 3 part question which will cover aspects of the whole 2 year course.

Resources

We have these books for you to use: Success in Sociology Published by John Murray Sociology in Focus Paul Taylor et al Sociology Themes and Perspectives Michael Haralambos

You might like to buy: ABC of Sociology Martin Slattery Published by Nelson Introducing Sociology Osbourne & Van Loon Published by Icon Books Letts Revision Guides Sociology Review A quarterly magazine for A level students

It is useful to read a quality newspaper and to watch news and documentary programmes.