Welcome to A Level Sociology!
We are delighted that you have chosen to study Sociology with us and look forward to welcoming you in September. Whether you have studied Sociology at GCSE or are completely new to the subject, this course will encourage you to think critically about the society we live in and question many of the things we often take for granted.
When the course begins in September, we will provide you with full details of the specification, course expectations and the textbook you will need. Don't worry about purchasing anything before then – we'll explain everything during your first few lessons.
To help you prepare, we have set a short summer assignment. If you studied GCSE Sociology, it will help you refresh and build on your existing knowledge. If Sociology is a new subject for you, it will introduce you to some of the key ideas and perspectives that we'll explore throughout the course. We'll use this work during the first few weeks, so please make sure you complete it before September.
There has never been a more interesting time to study Sociology. From social media and artificial intelligence to inequality, education, crime and changing family life, sociology helps us understand the issues shaping modern society. Throughout the course, you'll learn to evaluate evidence, consider different viewpoints and develop the analytical skills that universities and employers value highly.
If you have any questions before the end of the summer term, please don't hesitate to get in touch.
We hope you enjoy the assignment and look forward to meeting you in September.
Please find here some materials to get you ready for September.
Work that is expected will be completed and will form part of the first few weeks of teaching.
‘‘The function of sociology, as of every science, is to reveal that which is hidden’’
Pierre Bourdieu
Sociologists play a crucial role in our understanding of society by examining a wide range of topics and developing theories to explain human behaviour and the functioning of society. By applying sociological perspectives, researchers can shed light on the complexities and dynamics of social life. These perspectives offer valuable insights into the structures, patterns, and interactions that shape our lives, providing a deeper understanding of the world around us.
Now, your task is to create a fact file for at least one of the following sociological perspectives: Functionalism, Marxism, or Feminism. Your fact file should adhere to the following guidelines:
It should be a maximum of one side of A4 (minimum font size 11).
Provide an overview of the theory, explaining its main views on how society operates.
Present the history of the theory.
Include at least two key thinkers and summarise their arguments.
Discuss any criticisms of the theory.
To gather information about these perspectives, you can visit your school or local library. Alternatively, a quick Google search will provide you with a wealth of information. However, it is crucial to verify the credibility of your information sources before using them.
Please submit your assignment at the beginning of your first Sociology lesson.
For more information about the course or for questions on any of the activities above, don't hesitate to email us:
Paul Jenkins - pjenkins@bohunt.hants.sch.uk