AS Sociology₇₁₉₁

Integral elements

All the following must be an integral part of the study of each topic area:

• sociological theories, perspectives and methods
• the design of the research used to obtain the data under consideration, including its strengths and limitations.

Attention must be given to drawing out the links between topic areas studied.

Core themes

Students must study the following two core themes:

• socialisation, culture and identity
• social differentiation, power and stratification.

The themes should be understood and applied to particular substantive areas of Sociology. These themes are to be interpreted broadly as threads running through many areas of social life and should not therefore be regarded as discrete topics.

In addition, students must understand the significance of conflict and consensus, social structure and social action, and the role of values.

Contemporary UK society

The central focus of study in this specification should be on UK society today, with consideration given to comparative dimensions where relevant, including the siting of UK society within its globalised context.

• •3.1 Education with Methods in Context
• •3.2 Research Methods and Topics in Sociology