Topic One (1.1): What Is Sociological Theory?

Introduction Icon.png Introduction

This topic introduces you to some of the key themes in Sociology. You will notice that, throughout the course, you often come across similar themes and ideas. You are not expected to be an expert on these ideas by the end of this topic, but you should be able to identify and recognise these ideas and concepts, so you can build up your knowledge as you work through the course. 

Read & Make Notes Icon.png Read and Make Notes

Read pages 1 to 7 in your textbook and make detailed notes.

Skills Icon.png Tasks

  • Complete the activities in the textbook.
  • Watch the following video to draw together what you have learnt so far:

WATCH – An Introduction to Sociological Theory (YouTube) Links to an external site.

Glossary Icon.png Terminology

  • Print out the following list of key terms and keep it in your folder so you can tick off new terminology as you encounter it.

Download PRINT OUT – AS Sociology: A List of Key Terms

  • Note also the glossary at the back of the textbook. Make sure you refer to this regularly as you work through the course.
  • A helpful tip is to make flashcards for key terms as you go along, with the word on one side and the definition on the other. This makes revision later on much easier.