Social History 1.2
Social History 1.2 (or Brit Soc) is a 20 credit course that is taken in the 2nd Semester. Often viewed as a ‘soft option’ by Historical Purists, Brit Soc is one of the smaller classes on offer at the university. However don’t be put off: this is easily one of the best courses you can take in your First Year. There is a good range of material covered, such as changing gender roles, class interaction, and the use of leisure and sport. All of it is accessible, and you’ll need to do little preparation to understand each lecture. Bear in mind though that if you’re an international student, you may struggle to pick up on the British culture, lots of stuff you are assumed to already know about (such as the NHS, British class structure etc.)
Lectures are usually led by Dr Trevor Griffiths, who is hands-down one of the best lecturers at the university. The first thing you will come to realise is that he loves to sing. A lot. In one of his early lectures, he will perform ‘The Lambeth Walk’ with absolutely no shame. His impersonations and mannerisms are also real gems. Above all this however, he is a top expert in his field, knowledgeable about most areas of Social History and his lectures are always interesting and thought-provoking. However they are at 10am three times a week, so not one for the late risers!
Tutorials are once every two weeks, and are also enjoyable. Tutors are free to lead with their own style, but usually they go over a theme covered in previous lectures. There will usually be set reading and a discussion. You can often get really good debates, and the nature of the material is simplistic enough to include all members of the group. You’ll also have to do a group presentation, a short assignment about an original source, and a 2,000 word essay. The exam in May is also fairly standard, with lots of choice and options for a discussion-based answer.
Brit Soc is a great course, and should be considered by everyone (even if you’re not doing History!). Thoroughly recommended.
10/10
Lectures are usually led by Dr Trevor Griffiths, who is hands-down one of the best lecturers at the university. The first thing you will come to realise is that he loves to sing. A lot. In one of his early lectures, he will perform ‘The Lambeth Walk’ with absolutely no shame. His impersonations and mannerisms are also real gems. Above all this however, he is a top expert in his field, knowledgeable about most areas of Social History and his lectures are always interesting and thought-provoking. However they are at 10am three times a week, so not one for the late risers!
Tutorials are once every two weeks, and are also enjoyable. Tutors are free to lead with their own style, but usually they go over a theme covered in previous lectures. There will usually be set reading and a discussion. You can often get really good debates, and the nature of the material is simplistic enough to include all members of the group. You’ll also have to do a group presentation, a short assignment about an original source, and a 2,000 word essay. The exam in May is also fairly standard, with lots of choice and options for a discussion-based answer.
Brit Soc is a great course, and should be considered by everyone (even if you’re not doing History!). Thoroughly recommended.
10/10