Question 1: Define 'age inequality' in the context of society. Provide one example to illustrate your answer.

Answer: Age inequality refers to unfair treatment or disparities between different age groups in society. For example, older people may face discrimination in the workforce, such as being overlooked for promotions due to age.

Question 2: Explain how age can affect a person's access to employment opportunities. Use sociological ideas in your response.

Answer: Age can influence employment opportunities because employers may have stereotypes about older workers being less adaptable, or younger workers being inexperienced. These biases can lead to age discrimination, limiting job prospects for certain age groups.

Question 3: Describe how society's perceptions of youth and old age can lead to stereotypes.

Answer: Society often views young people as irresponsible or rebellious, while older people may be seen as frail or out of touch. These perceptions create stereotypes that influence how different age groups are treated.

Question 4: Discuss one way in which age inequality can impact mental health among older adults.

Answer: Age inequality can lead to social exclusion and feelings of loneliness among older adults, which may increase the risk of mental health issues like depression and anxiety.

Question 5: Identify and explain two ways in which government policies can either reduce or reinforce age inequality.

Answer: Policies like pension schemes and anti-discrimination laws can reduce age inequality by promoting equal treatment. Conversely, policies that favor youth employment or neglect older people's rights can reinforce age-based disparities.

Question 6: Sketch a diagram illustrating the concept of 'age stratification' and how different age groups are positioned within society.

Answer: A correct sketch would depict a layered pyramid or horizontal bars, each representing different age groups (children, youth, adults, elderly), with annotations showing their social roles and privileges. It should illustrate that society assigns varying levels of access to resources based on age.

Question 7: Describe a scenario where age inequality might be observed in education or training.

Answer: An example is older adults being discouraged from returning to school due to stereotypes that they are too old to learn new skills, limiting their educational opportunities.

Question 8: Reflect on how societal attitudes towards aging might change in the future and what impact this could have on age inequality.

Answer: If society begins to value older adults more, recognizing their contributions and challenging stereotypes, age inequality could decrease, leading to more inclusive policies and attitudes that promote equality across all ages.

Question 9: Draw a simple chart comparing the typical social roles of children, working-age adults, and the elderly in society.

Answer: A correct chart would have three columns or sections labeled 'Children', 'Working-age Adults', and 'Elderly', with bullet points or icons indicating roles such as 'students', 'workers', 'retirees', and associated expectations or responsibilities.