The second edition of “AS Sociology for AQA” sees some major changes to
reflect both the changing nature of the 2008 AS-Level Sociology Specification
and the changing nature of publishing. Specifically, the main changes are in
three areas:
1. Content: The 2nd edition follows
the precise structure of the new Specification in the following Units and
Modules:
Introduction to Sociology
Families and Households
Culture and Identity
Wealth, Poverty and Welfare
Education
Research Methods
Text: Each section is split into two complimentary sub-sections:
▪ “Observations” focuses on introductory knowledge, important definitions and empirical data while:
▪ “Explanations” is constructed around overviews and examinations of the most important areas of theoretical knowledge.
Module Links: These are used in the text to highlight conceptual links within and between Modules. These Links are also used, where appropriate, to highlight possible synoptic links between AS and A2.
Exam Questions: At various points in each Module a range of exam-style questions are introduced as a way of testing / reinforcing knowledge and understanding. These questions follow the style of the new exam.
3. Distribution: Perhaps the most significant change in the 2nd edition is the decision to focus on electronic forms of distribution (although a printed version of the textbook is available). Electronic distribution has a couple of distinct advantages for teachers and students:
Cost: This type of delivery system allows production and distribution costs to be minimised – allowing you to reap the benefit of significant savings over comparable print-based textbooks.
Choice: Distribution is customer, rather than producer, led – which means you can buy the whole textbook or just those chapters you teach / study.