Course+Overview

[[file:SOC111LittletonVashaw-Piper 2012.doc]]
REVIEW from the BOOK: http://wps.prenhall.com/hss_curry_sociology_5/63/16244/4158690.cw/index.html

Loading...


 * ESSENTIAL QUESTIONS**

What is normal? Are we (as human beings) unique individuals? Who (or what) determines what is considered normal and what is considered deviant? How does the definition of deviance change over time and what causes this change? How does the exploration of other cultures lend itself to the discussion of deviance? How does the question “Why?” shape our understanding of normalcy or deviance? How can thinking sociologically help us in day to day life and/or our occupations?

We are all connected at some level.

Sociology studies the social character and systematic organization of human interaction. By bringing critical analysis to bear on social interaction, sociological thinking often disturbs and even challenges taken-for-granted beliefs and practices. Sociology therefore invites us to engage in a disciplined critique of our own lives, the society to which we belong, and societies distinct from our own. It also enables us to make positive choices and social change.

Get ready to ask and answer these questions!

** Sociology **

** Courtney Vashaw-Piper, Spring 2012 **

covash@profile.k12.nh.us/ cbvashaw@yahoo.com

In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of Sociology and apply their knowledge and understanding to their own lives and an area of interest.

Basic sociological theory and vocabulary, including but not limited to the following:
 * At the end of the term, students will know:**

Sociological perspective Sociological imagination Proletariat Bourgeoisie Anomie Double Consciousness Social Conflict Theory Structural Functionalist Theory Symbolic Interactionalist Theory Culture Norms, Values, and Beliefs Folkways, Mores and Taboos Material and Non-Material culture Language Cultural relativism and ethnocentrism Deviance Social institutions Agents of socialization Resocialization Nature and Nurture

Dramaturgical self Labeling Theory Independent Variable Dependent Variable Correlation Quantitative and Qualitative research The Hawthorn Effect Crime Socioeconomic Status (SES) Social problems and social change

** At the end of the course, students will be able to: **

Define the nature of sociology as a discipline and as a way of thinking. Understand the tools that sociologists use in conducting research. Identify the elements of the social structure and apply these to an analysis of high school. Discuss the relationship between the individual and society. Discuss various dimensions of social inequality. Apply their understanding of new terminology to multiple topics.

Use their new knowledge and understanding to examine their own school experiences (particularly high school), constructively reflect on their own process, and make recommendations for improving the institution of education.

Recognize the importance of social interactions and connections and consider how these affect the individual and the group consciousness.

Understand and apply the basic principles of social change as they apply to current adolescent social problems.

** Eligibility and Credits: ** ½ high school credit 3-4 college credits through Project Running Start ($100 fee payable to WMCC) Open to juniors, seniors, and sophomores (prereq: American Studies and permission)

** Tentative Schedule: ** Starting January 26, 2012 16 class sessions of 2.5 hours each. We will talk about February and April breaks. Between classes, students will be responsible for outside reading and/or viewing activities, as well as posting to discussion boards via blog, wikispace, or Google.docs.

Many different factors go into computing a final course grade. In this class, assessments will be graded on a four point scale on four competency outcomes (see below), using a variety of assessment techniques, including class discussions, reading/content quizzes, and major assessments in the form of standard objective tests and written assignments. 4- Exceeds Competency 3- Meets Competency 2- Approaching Competency (see instructor for revisions and/or extra help) 1- Significantly Lacking (see instructor for remediation and revision)
 * __Grading and Assessment:__**

Any one assignment, activity, or discussion may be graded on one or multiple outcomes. For example, a major paper will be graded on KA, EC, and PA, while a class discussion may be graded on just KA and PA.
 * __ Competency Outcomes (subject to change): __**

This is core content knowledge, including key terminology and theorists, major paradigms, comprehension, as well as application of that knowledge. Sociology is about seeing connections. Critical thinking is the ability to apply knowledge and draw correlations between the assigned content and other scenarios- “real life.”
 * Content Knowledge and Application (KA) 70% **


 * Effective Communicator (EC)- 20% **

Communication is key to demonstrating understanding. Written communication should be well-planned, free of significant errors, using STANDARD ENGLISH (not text or IM language), and include proper citation format (when required). Communication in class discussion (online or in person) may be critical in furthering understanding, and should be respectful at all times.

This is communication-heavy course. That said, attendance is crucial for forming and demonstrating understanding. Students will receive a weekly participation grade which will include attendance in class and posting online. Students who must be absent should contact me BEFORE class as many activities are contingent upon everyone being present. Students who are absent should expect supplemental assignments.
 * Participation and Attendance (PA)- 10% **