Socio-cultural anthropologists’grapple with the fundamental issues of what makes us truly human – how are all people, regardless of cultural difference or location, similar? In what ways are we unique? How do we as human beings understand the world around us, both now and across time? What is the role and function of culture? How do societies and individuals use culture to understand and make meaning in the world?
Looking deeply into these questions, from practical and theoretical perspectives, will help open your eyes to different cultures and experiences. This course is intended to challenge your assumptions and cultural belief systems, as well as giving you the critical thinking and research skills necessary to succeed in a wide range of university programmes. Anthropology is a dynamic and ever-changing field, offering a wide range of exciting possibilities in today’s global job market.
There are three components to the course:
Part 1 -Engaging with Anthropology
- The Language of Anthropology
- The Practice of Anthropology
- Anthropological Thinking
- Anthropological Ethics
Part 2-Engaging with Ethnography: Standard Level (SL) students will complete 3 Areas of Inquiry (AoI), and Higher Level (HL)will complete 4. Students will explore cultural concepts and theoretical perspectives related to the following Areas of Inquiry: the Body; Belonging; Conflict; and Production, Consumption and Exchange.
Part 3 -Doing Anthropology: Fieldwork and anthropological research into an area of culture determined by the student. You will be assessed via a mixture of exams and coursework. SL students will undertake an observation and critique exercise, whilst HL students will work on a more in-depth fieldwork project; both exercises are centred around your own interests.
The study of Anthropology allows you to see the world through fresh eyes, and reflect on it in different ways. The focus on how and why human beings act and make sense of the world, plus the range of high level sociological theories make Anthropology a preparatory subject for a vast array of degree programmes. Anthropology students at Parkside Sixth benefit from small class sizes, and therefore a practical approach to investigating anthropological ethics and research methods.
Entry Requirements
Standard Level - GCSE English Literature/Language at Grade 4 and above
Higher Level - GCSE English Literature/Language at Grade 4 and above
For further information
Please contact Ed White: ed.white@parksidecc.org.uk
Social and Cultural Anthropology Curriculum Map