Bell Ringer: Why did you sign-up for
sociology? What do you hope to learn?
Remember: Write the day (Day 3), the date,
and the questions out in full. I expect to see
some thought and analysis go into your
answer.
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The students will:
◦ Understand the terms perspective and theoretical
perspective.
◦ Understand the role of theoretical perspectives in
Sociology.
◦ Under the three main theoretical perspectives in
Sociology and how they are applied.
◦ Identify particular statements as being of one
perspective or another.
◦ Engage in a cooperative learning activity.

Introduction
◦ http://viewpure.com/paA61KfOcEc
◦ After the video, read Section 3 of Chapter 1:
“Theoretical Perspectives”

The students will:
◦ Understand the terms perspective and theoretical
perspective.
◦ Understand the role of theoretical perspectives in
Sociology.
◦ Under the three main theoretical perspectives in
Sociology and how they are applied.
◦ Identify particular statements as being of one
perspective or another.
◦ Engage in a cooperative learning activity.

Functionalism – can be simply explained as a
viewpoint that emphasizes the smooth
functioning of society.
◦ Macro Theory – What does this mean? Why?

Conflict Theory – looks at the problems
caused by groups that oppose each other.
◦ Macro Theory – What does this mean? Why?

Symbolic Interactionism – looks at the
interactions based on shared symbols.
◦ Micro theory – What does this mean? Why?

Identify any problem or condition in your life
◦ Decide which perspective you believe would be
most helpful in analyzing the situation.
◦ After you have decided on an approach and
formulated why this particular approach will work
best, share your response with a classmate sitting
next to you and see if that classmate agrees.
◦ Some of you will be asked to share, so pick a school
appropriate situation!
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Get into two equal lines facing each other
(make sure you are straight across from
someone)
Try to persuade your partner to come over to
your side. YOU CANNOT TALK!!!!!! (You have
six minutes)
If you persuade your partner to come over to
your side, you win a prize.
Return quietly to your seat for a discussion
and handing out prizes.

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You each persuaded the other to change sides
with you? Who would have won?
What made this a conflict theory exercise?
Explain.
Can all conflicts be resolved by agreement? Why
or why not?
What is the nation’s biggest conflict right now?
Could it be resolved through understanding and
compromise? Why or why not?

Look at page 31 – Section 3 Assessment
◦ Let’s answer the questions 1-3 out loud.
◦ Look at question 4 – Critical Thinking – Answer this
in writing and turn it in next class typed at the
beginning of class. (write the question down if you
need to and use your notes to help you answer the
question.)