The Grammar School for Girls Wilmington

What is AS/A2 Sociology?

Sociology is the study of society.  This subject provides a thought provoking analysis of how social groups and individuals relate to each other and how society is organised.  Social institutions such as the family and education will be examined in detail and crime and deviance will be studied as the main synoptic module.  The course aims to develop the ability to evaluate and think critically.  These are useful academic skills that can be applied to a range of situations.

How long is the course?

The full advanced level qualification is a two year course which consists of the AS and A2 courses.

What qualifications do I need?

5 or more GCSEs at grade C and above with a B grade in English.

What will I study?

You will undertake the following sections of study:

Year 12 Modules (AS)

Unit 1:

Families and Households

Unit 2:

Education

Unit 3:

Sociological Methods

Year 13 Modules (A2)

Unit 4:

Religion

Unit 5:

Theory and Methods

Unit 6:

Crime and Deviance

What else is involved:

A commitment to the subject and the willingness to participate in class discussions.  The ability to develop critical skills and examine unfamiliar ideas and models of thought with an open mind

How will I be assessed?

AS Level

Unit          Time Allocated        % of final grade

1 Exam     1 hour 15mins            35% (AS)   17¿% (A2)

2 Exam     1 hour 15mins            35% (AS)   17¿% (A2)

3 Exam     1 hour                        30% (AS)   15%   (A2)

A2 Level

Unit          Time Allocated        % of final grade

4 Exam      1 hour 30mins                       15%

5 Exam      1 hour 30mins                       15%

6 Exam      1 hour 30miins                      20%

There is no coursework. 

What other subjects can I study?

Sociology complements most other social science or humanities subjects.  It could also be combined successfully with a science subject where it would offer a contrasting view of methodology.

What career and higher education opportunities are open to me?

Sociology can be studied at university as a single or joint honours and graduates enter a range of careers in the public services as well as in the private sector.  Sociology A level is also a popular option for entry to many professional careers including; teaching, social work, human resources, the legal profession, nursing and the police.