SOC101 +02+Syllabus+S13+Luther - 1 Introduction to...

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Introduction to Sociology: SOCI 101
Spring 2013
MWF 12:30
ADMN 200
Instructor: Kate Luther, Ph.D. Phone : [phone]
Office : Xavier 332 e-mail : [email protected]
Office Hours :
Monday 10:00-10:30 and 1:45-3:15; Wednesday 10:00-10:30 and 1:45-3:15;
Friday 10:00-10:30 and 3:00-3:30
Course Description
Sociology helps us understand how our personal, everyday experiences affect and are affected by the
larger society in which we live. The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the discipline of
sociology, including major theoretical perspectives and empirical findings. We will begin by looking at
the discipline of sociology, trying to understand how sociologists view the world, the major theories they
draw on to explain social patterns, and the methods they use to collect data about these patterns. We will
go on to examine the nature of society, focusing on the ways in which social structures and group
memberships influence the roles we assume, the beliefs we hold, and the opportunities we have. We will
then focus on American society, looking specifically at the interconnections of race, class, and gender in
shaping these experiences.
Goals for the Course
By the end of the course you should:

know and use sociological concepts

know three major sociological perspectives

know research methods

see sociology “in practice”

have experience in writing sociologically

participate in oral discussions and/or presentations

be able to think critically

develop an appreciation for the impact of race, class, gender, and other hierarchies upon social life

become acquainted with the American Sociological Association (ASA) style conventions for writing
and research
Required Reading
McIntyre, Lisa. 2011. The Practical Skeptic: Core Concepts in Sociology (5 th Edition). New York:
McGraw-Hill.
Lareau, Annette. 2003. Unequal Childhoods: Class, Race, and Family Life . Berkeley, CA: University of
California Press.
Additional readings are posted on Sakai.
Grading
Grades are assigned on the basis of points earned throughout the course. Note: in order to pass the class,
all course requirements must be completed.
Course Requirements : Points
Exam 1 100
Exam 2 100
Exam 3 100
Research Paper 100
Participation 50

2
Total points possible 450
Exams
The three exams will cover material from lectures, readings, and discussions. The exams will consist of
two types of questions: multiple choice, true/false and/or fill-in-the-blank questions to test your recall of
important concepts, and essay questions designed to assess your ability to apply and synthesize
information from lectures and readings.
Students are expected to take exams as they are scheduled on the syllabus. If emergency circumstances
arise (e.g., medical emergency, serious illness, death in the family), contact your professor as soon as
possible to see if alternative arrangements may be made. Please note: emergencies do not include leaving
campus early to celebrate the holidays or because your parent/guardian already purchased your airline
ticket.