Sociology
Head of Department: Miss K. O'Donoghue
In Sociology, we study the way people are affected by society, and how society is affected by people. Some sociologists see the behaviour of individuals as determined by how they are raised and educated, what media they are exposed to, whether they are rich or poor, men or women, black or white. Others see individuals as powerful in shaping society, and look at the power of some people in labelling others as crucial. What is undeniable is that, as individuals, we spend almost all our time in groups, and in order to understand our behaviour we have to examine and assess the impact of those groups and institutions on us. Throughout it all, we use theoretical perspectives that originated with the industrial revolution (which gave birth to Sociology as a discipline), but are equally focused on explanations that take into account the rapid changes being wrought by globalisation, new technology and the mass media on contemporary society.
The Sociology Department wishes to intensify student's learning by providing stimulating trips, debates and giving the students the opportunity to listen to some captivating guest speakers. Due to Sociology A-level being such a success in both popularity and academically, we are excited to announce that from September 2019, Sociology is also be available as a GCSE option.
Key Stage 4
Students have the opportunity to select Sociology as an optional GCSE subject, and follow the AQA Sociology course throughout years 9, 10 and 11.
During their GCSE studies students will student two broad topics; The sociology of Families and Education, and The Sociology of Crime and Deviance and Social Stratification.
Through these topics students will explore questions such as:
- Are all 'hoodies' hooligans?
- Why are young black people seven times more likely to be stopped and searched than white people?
- Why do girls do better at school than boys?
- What is gang culture?
- What does it mean to be poor in Britain today?
For a more detailed explanation of the GCSE course and assessment format please click here.
For a more detailed breakdown of the curriculum please see the Curriculum Overview and more details can also be found in the Curriculum Booklet.