VCE | SOCIOLOGY

Sociology involves the academic study of modern society and human behaviour. Students gain knowledge and understanding of how different aspects of a society are nuanced and interrelated, as well as the reasons for social difference, the relevance of social hierarchies, the role of social power and the causes and impacts of social change. By developing the capacity for detailed observation and critical thinking, students learn about social patterns, human behaviour, group dynamics and social institutions within both

UNIT 1 - Youth and Family

This unit uses sociological methodology to explore the social category of youth and the social institution of family. In Area of Study 1, the focus is on the diverse experiences of young people. Students delve into the factors that contribute to varying experiences of youth and explore the potential harm of stereotyping young people, especially in societies characterised by diverse ways of life. Area of Study 2 centres around the social institution of the family. In a multicultural society like Australia, different communities have distinct types of families and experiences of family life. Students explore the historical and social context of our traditional understanding of family, and explore how the family institution is becoming increasingly diverse. Students will utilise theoretical approaches such as functionalist and feminist perspectives to explain the purpose and experiences of family life.

UNIT 2 - Social Norms: Breaking the Code

In this unit students explore the concepts of deviance and crime. In Area of Study 1, the focus is on the concept of deviance, including how what is considered deviant may differ according to age and social status, and across time and space. Students learn about the meaning of deviance, how sociologists explain deviant behaviour, and the impact of moral panic on those considered deviant. Area of study 2 centres on developing an understanding of the concept of crime. Students learn that crime and its definition are shaped by a community’s sense of what is considered right and wrong. They consider and examine the various factors that may contribute to people committing crimes and investigate the international nature of some types of crime and the various ways that nations deal with crime. Students also examine the aims and rationales of methods of punishment practised within Australian society and explore how effectively these methods achieve the aims of punishment and, through this, shape human behaviour.

Australian and international contexts. This subject offers opportunity for students to analyse daily life, human activity and social issues on a local, national and international scale, and to broaden their grasp of sociological concepts, theory and current research. As a result, sociology promotes appreciation for cultural diversity, together with different worldviews, lifestyles, structures and social phenomena.

UNIT 3 - Culture and Ethnicity

This unit explores expressions of culture and ethnicity within Australian society in two different contexts – Australian Indigenous culture, and ethnicity in relation to migrant groups. Students explore the historical suppression and increasing public awareness of Australian Indigenous culture. Ethnicity is a key sociological category that plays an important role in social life. Individuals often define themselves, or others, as members of at least one ethnic group based on a common heritage that gives them a unique social identity. Students develop an understanding of a variety of barriers and enablers that need to be considered when investigating experiences of ethnicity.

UNIT 4 - Community, social movements and social change

Students explore the ways sociologists have thought about the idea of community and how the various types of community are experienced. They examine the relationship between social movements and social change and the changing definitions and experiences of community. This includes examination of the challenges and opportunities posed by political, social, economic and technological change. Students investigate the role of social movements. They develop an understanding of the purpose, evolution, power and outcomes of social movements.