Education exam questions (2022 - 2020)

THEORIES IN EDUCATION

Item B: Sociologists agree that education transmits ideas and values. However, they disagree about the nature of these ideas and values, and who benefits from this process. For example, feminists argue that education transmits patriarchal ideology, and that this benefits men. Other sociologists argue that the education system has become fragmented and transmits a diverse range of ideas and values. Applying material from Item B and your knowledge, evaluate sociological explanations of the role of education in transmitting ideas and values. [30 marks]

Item A: From a functionalist perspective, one role of the education system is to help create a value consensus. Functionalists also believe education contributes to role allocation in a variety of ways, for example through the use of examinations and assessments. However, other sociologists are critical of the functionalist approach to the education system. For example, Marxists and feminists would challenge the idea that the education system is meritocratic. Applying material from Item A and your knowledge, evaluate the functionalist approach to the education system. [20 marks] 

Item B: Some sociologists, such as functionalists, claim that the education system is based on meritocratic principles and provides all pupils with the opportunity to succeed. Pupils, whatever their background, are objectively assessed through the examination process. Other sociologists claim that meritocracy is a myth. The education system ensures that existing social inequalities are reproduced in each generation. Applying material from Item B and your knowledge, evaluate the view that the education system is meritocratic. [30 marks] 

Item A: According to Marx, capitalism is based on the ownership of the means of production by a wealthy minority. Capitalism continues to exist because each new generation of workers is forced to undertake low-paid, alienating work to survive. This makes capitalism potentially unstable, since it depends on the proletariat not seeking to overthrow this unequal system. Applying material from Item A, analyse two ways in which the education system might serve the needs of capitalism. [10 marks] 

Outline three ways in which the education system may be seen as patriarchal.  [6 marks]

Outline three ways in which the characteristics of schools may be similar to the characteristics of workplaces. [6 marks]

Outline three functions that the education system performs for society. [6 marks]

ETHNICITY

Item B: All levels of the education system show differences in achievement between ethnic groups. When explaining these patterns, some sociologists focus on the role of the home and family life in promoting educational achievement for some ethnic groups. However, other sociologists suggest that factors within schools are more important in explaining differences in achievement between ethnic groups. Applying material from Item B and your knowledge, evaluate sociological explanations of differences in educational achievement between ethnic groups. [30 marks]

Item A: Some sociologists claim that the curriculum taught in schools today prioritises some cultures over others. Research also suggests that teacher expectations can be based on stereotypes. Teaching and learning in schools may affect the educational experiences of minority ethnic groups. Applying material from Item…