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COURSE OVERVIEW

This course studies and explores the contemporary social world.  It looks at a range of studies and theories which seek to explain social processes and social changes. The course will foster the development of critical and reflective thinking, provide an awareness of the importance of social structure and social action in explaining social issues and emphasise different interpretations of social experiences:

  • Study the formation of culture, the process of socialisation and its role in forming identity
  • Explore the influence of class, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, the mass media and education on the attitudes, values and social experiences of both individuals and society
  • Consider how the family is the main transmitter of culture in contemporary society
  • Understand the influence of Globalisation and the digital social world
  • Explore the patterns and trends relating to crime and deviance, as well as explanations for crime
  • Consider the research process in context, exploring methods of data collection, analysis of data and research concepts
  • Develop the skills of application, analysis, interpretation and evaluation
  • Develop the ability to critically analyse explanations and features of the contemporary social world

ASSESSMENT

Assessment will be by three module exams ranging from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 15 minutes.  The assessment is linear and therefore all 3 papers are completed at the end of Year 13.

WHERE CAN IT LEAD?

Higher education courses and many careers are available after completing this course, including: The Police Force and Social Services. The course provides an appropriate foundation for further study of Sociology and other fields in Social Services and related subjects in higher education as well as a worthwhile basis for a variety of careers and for lifelong learning.