Situation: Two
college students, Mary and Alexis, are studying for an upcoming sociology test.
Mary: Hey Alexis, I am
glad you decided to come over to my house to study for our upcoming exam. The
sociology test seems to be very difficult. I have studied all the materials,
but I am still not confident about my performance this Friday.
Alexis: Yes, this test is
going to be hard, but since you have covered all the materials, you should be
adequately prepared. I have read all the chapters, but I have not studied the
notes from the lectures. Let’s do a review starting from chapter one and then
we will work our way up through chapter three. Does that sound OK to you?
Mary: That sounds like a good
idea. Let’s start!
Alexis: Well, in chapter
one, the book covers the three fundamental points of view on sociology. Do you
know what these three points of view are?
Mary: Yes, I think I do.
They are the Functionalist, the Conflict, and the Interactionist perspectives.
Is that right?
Alexis: Yes! You got it!
Good job!
Mary: Thanks, Alexis! But
what does each perspective believe?
Alexis: Well, you know what
the Functionalist Perspective talks about. It is the easiest to remember.
Mary: Oh yes! That one talks
about how everyone has a function in society. It states that everyone has a
function in life where their collective actions will be put together for the
benefit of society.
Alexis: That is correct! No
need to ask, but I think you understand very well what the other two perspectives
are all about, right?
Mary: Yes, I can explain
very precisely what they are. There is no need for me to do a review on them.
Let’s finish the other chapters.
Alexis: Well, how about you
quiz me on chapter two.
Mary: Sure. Well, in
chapter two, the book discusses Max Weber. Who was Max Weber and what was his
opinion on the issue of organization?
Alexis: Well, Max Weber was
one of the founders of the modern study of sociology. He believed that
organizing requires communication, coordination, and control.
Mary: That is correct!
You are doing really well too, Alexis!
Alexis: Thanks Mary! I feel
pretty good about chapter two. Let’s take a break right now and we will finish
going over the main parts of chapter three when we come back.
Mary: Chapter three is
the most difficult chapter. I have read the chapter twice on top of reviewing
all my lecture notes, and it is still quite confusing. Maybe I just made a big
deal out of nothing.
Alexis: Chapter three
covers quite a few different concepts. It might be better for us to write down
each concept and then carefully do a comparison of their similarities and
differences. I bet our teacher will ask us to write a short essay on each
concept as part of the exam.
Mary: Do you think so? I
better get myself prepared since we only have an hour to finish the exam. I am
never good at writing as I always have difficulties putting my thoughts on
paper. I have worked so hard to overcome this problem, but I still have not
improved much. Maybe, I have a tendency of over analyzing things.
Alexis: I do not think that
is your problem. It is probably a case of anxiety. Try to relax and take it
easy. Things get worse when you do not have control of yourself.
Mary: I know, I know.
However, I cannot help it. It is good that you suggested we take a break. I
need to have a clear mind when we start on chapter three. Let’s go find
something to eat and listen to some soothing music for a while.
Alexis: OK, Mary.
