Lesson Plan | Teachy Methodology | Classics of Sociology

Objectives

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to ensure that students have a clear and in-depth understanding of the relevance of the classics of sociology. This solid foundation will enable them to actively participate in practical activities that will be conducted throughout the lesson, applying the concepts of the authors to modern dynamics of the world.

Main Objectives

1. Understand the contributions of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber to the construction of social sciences.

2. Identify the main ideas of each of these authors and how they relate to contemporary society.

Side Objectives

1. Promote critical analysis of the application of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber's ideas in current social contexts.
2. Stimulate students' argumentative and debate skills by relating sociological theories to everyday situations.

Introduction

Duration: 15 - 20 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to ensure that students have a clear and in-depth understanding of the relevance of the classics of sociology. This solid foundation will enable them to actively participate in practical activities that will be conducted throughout the lesson, applying the concepts of the authors to modern dynamics of the world.

Warming Up

To start the lesson and engage students, briefly explain that the 'Classics of Sociology' are fundamental to understanding how society works and evolves. They were pioneers in analyzing social structure and behavior from different perspectives. Instruct students to take their cell phones and search online for an interesting fact about Émile Durkheim, Karl Marx, or Max Weber. Give them a few minutes to do this search and then ask them to share their findings with the class.

Initial Reflections

1. What are the main contributions of Émile Durkheim to sociology?

2. How do Karl Marx's ideas about class conflict apply to today's society?

3. In what aspects is Max Weber's theory of social action still relevant today?

4. What contemporary examples can be related to the theories of these classical sociologists?

5. How do you think social networks influence the social dynamics described by Durkheim, Marx, and Weber?

Development

Duration: 70-80 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to provide a practical, creative, and digital application of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber's theories, encouraging collaboration, research, and critical thinking among students. These exercises will help solidify theoretical understanding through engaging activities that connect academic content to students' contemporary reality.

Activity Suggestions

It is recommended that only one of the suggested activities be carried out

Activity 1 - Sociological Reality Show 

> Duration: 60-70 minutes

- Objective: Demonstrate a practical understanding of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber's sociological theories, applying them to modern contexts in a creative and engaged manner.

- Description: Students will create an episode of a fictional reality show in which participants are characters based on Durkheim, Marx, and Weber's theories. Each group will choose an author and represent their theories applied to a modern context, such as life in an office, a school, or a social network.

- Instructions:

• Divide the class into groups of up to 5 people.

• Each group will choose one of the three sociologists: Durkheim, Marx, or Weber.

• Students must create fictional profiles of the reality show participants, based on the theories of the chosen author.

• Then, students should script an episode of the reality show, describing how the chosen author's theories influence the behavior and interactions of the characters in specific situations.

• Groups can use cell phones and computers to research more details about the authors and their theories, and to create realistic scripts and scenarios.

• After preparation, each group will present their episode to the class, using resources such as short videos, live performances, or slide presentations.

• At the end, there will be a group discussion about how each theory manifested in the presented situations and how they apply to the modern world.

Activity 2 - Digital Social Influencer 

> Duration: 60-70 minutes

- Objective: Engage students in creating educational digital content, promoting a deeper and practical understanding of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber's theories.

- Description: Students will create the persona of a fictional digital influencer whose content is based on the theories of Durkheim, Marx, or Weber. They must produce social media posts, short videos, and stories that explain and demonstrate the ideas of these authors in a creative and accessible way.

- Instructions:

• Divide the class into groups of up to 5 people.

• Each group will choose one of the three sociologists: Durkheim, Marx, or Weber.

• Students will create a fictional digital influencer profile inspired by the theories of the chosen author.

• Groups must produce varied content, such as posts, short videos, and stories, for major social media platforms (Instagram, TikTok, Twitter), explaining the author's ideas and applying them to contemporary situations.

• Use cell phones and computers to create and edit the content. Graphic design and video editing tools can be used to make posts more attractive.

• Each group will present their work to the class, showcasing the produced content and explaining how the author's theories were adapted to the digital context.

• After the presentations, there will be a moment for feedback and discussion about the effectiveness of communicating the theories through social media.

Activity 3 - Sociological Debate Game 

> Duration: 60-70 minutes

- Objective: Develop argumentative and debate skills, promote the practical application of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber's sociological theories to real problems, and encourage research and group work.

- Description: Students will participate in a debate game where, divided into groups, they must defend one of the three sociological theories - Durkheim, Marx, or Weber - applying it to a contemporary social problem. The teacher will act as the debate moderator.

- Instructions:

• Divide the class into groups of up to 5 people.

• Each group will represent one of the three sociologists: Durkheim, Marx, or Weber.

• The teacher will present a contemporary social problem, such as social inequality, environmental crisis, or the impact of social media.

• Groups will have 20 minutes to prepare arguments defending how their chosen author's theories can be applied to understand or solve the presented problem.

• Encourage students to conduct quick research using cell phones and computers to strengthen their arguments.

• Each group will have 10 minutes to present their arguments, followed by a round of questions and answers moderated by the teacher.

• At the end, the class will discuss which arguments were most convincing and how the sociologists' theories can be integrated to provide more comprehensive solutions.

Feedback

Duration: 15 - 20 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to provide a moment of collective reflection, where students can share their experiences and learnings, as well as receive feedback from peers. This exchange of ideas and perceptions will aid in consolidating the knowledge acquired, promoting a respectful and collaborative environment that stimulates individual and collective growth.

Group Discussion

To start the group discussion, suggest that students share their experiences and conclusions from the activities carried out. Ask each group to briefly present the main points of their Sociological Reality Show episodes, Digital Social Influencer profiles, or arguments from the Sociological Debate Game. Encourage the exchange of ideas and healthy debate on how each theory was applied and the results obtained. A suggested script for the teacher: 'Now that we have completed our activities, let’s share our learnings. Each group will have a few minutes to present their main conclusions and reflections on how they applied the theories of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber. Let's start with the group that chose Durkheim...' Highlight the importance of respect and active listening during presentations and discussions.

Reflections

1. How have the theories of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber helped you better understand the social dynamics addressed in the activities? 2. What challenges and facilitation did you encounter when applying the ideas of these sociologists to modern contexts? 3. How did these digital and creative activities contribute to your learning about sociology?

360° Feedback

Explain to students that they will now go through a 360° feedback stage where each student should receive feedback from other group members they worked with. Guide them to be constructive and respectful, highlighting positive points and suggesting improvements. Suggestion for the teacher: 'We will now conduct our 360° feedback moment. Each student should comment on the collaboration, ideas, and participation of the other members of their group. Remember to be constructive and respectful, pointing out both positive aspects and areas for improvement. Let's start with the group that chose Marx...'

Conclusion

Duration: 10 - 15 minutes

The purpose of this stage is to consolidate the knowledge acquired in a creative and memorable way, connecting theoretical content with everyday practice. The creative summary and reflection on the applications of theories in today's world help students to better retain the concepts and realize the relevance of what has been learned for their lives. ✨

Summary

Summary with a Twist of Meme : Imagine Durkheim, Marx, and Weber as social superheroes! Durkheim is the Guardian of Rules, demonstrating how society stays united. Marx is the Equality Fighter, always ready to highlight class struggles. And Weber? The Master of Action, explaining how our intentions shape the world. Together, these three combat social villainy and help us understand the invisible gears of society! 

World Connection

Our lesson dove headfirst into the universe of social networks, reality shows, and digital influencers to connect the old ideas of classical sociologists with our modern world. Through the creation of digital content and contemporary debates, students were able to see how Durkheim, Marx, and Weber are still super relevant for understanding societal dynamics and the social changes we experience today. 

Practical Application

Understanding the theories of Durkheim, Marx, and Weber is essential for navigating the complexities of today's society. These ideas help us analyze and question social norms, understand class conflicts, and see how our individual actions can shape the collective. This is vital not only for sociology students but for any citizen who wants to be more critical and participative in their community. 