- Families and households: Changing patterns of family life, childhood, functions of the family, gender roles, and social policy.
- Education: Education policy, theories of the role of education in society, class, gender and ethnic differences in achievement.
- Beliefs: Theories of religious organisations including cults, the relationship between social groups, beliefs and practices, significance of religion in the contemporary world.
- Crime and deviance: Theories of crime, social patterns of crime, victims, prevention and punishment, global crime.
- Research methods: Surveys, interviews, observation, secondary sources.
- Sociological theories: Sociological views such as feminism, functionalism and postmodernism.
What are lessons like in this subject?
In Sociology lessons, students engage in a range of learning activities including individual and group work, discussions and quizzes. Students are encouraged to discuss contemporary issues in society such as why people commit crime, or why social class affects educational achievement.
Sociology is a subject that develops critical and analytical thinking skills, so students are encouraged to read, analyse and discuss sociological research and theories.
Students are supported in developing their essay writing and evaluation skills. In addition, the department invites professional sociologists to talk to students about their research into society.
What will I study?
What our
students
Sociology provides a deeper understanding of human behaviour, social structure and the forces that shape our lives. It encourages you to think about different perspectives and provides a deeper understanding of social structures, inequality and helps you develop empathy towards individuals. It is a really interesting course and I really recommend it.
Lily Hope, The Hayfield School
Sociology
Please note: Subject videos have been filmed from colleges across our Trust.
