Question 1: Define the term 'role of education' and explain why it is important in society.

Answer: The 'role of education' refers to the functions and purposes that education serves in society, such as socialisation, preparing individuals for work, and promoting social cohesion. It is important because it helps individuals develop skills, knowledge, and values necessary for societal stability and progress.

Question 2: Identify and briefly describe two different functions of education according to sociologists.

Answer: Two functions of education are: (1) Socialisation – teaching students norms, values, and social skills; (2) Social mobility – providing opportunities for individuals to improve their social and economic status through qualifications.

Question 3: Discuss how education can contribute to social inequality.

Answer: Education can contribute to social inequality because access to quality education often depends on factors like family income, location, and social background. This can lead to unequal opportunities for success, with wealthier students having advantages over poorer students, thus perpetuating social class divisions.

Question 4: Explain the concept of 'hidden curriculum' and give two examples of what it might include.

Answer: The 'hidden curriculum' refers to the unwritten, informal lessons and values that students learn in school, such as discipline, conformity, and respect for authority. Examples include learning punctuality and obedience, or understanding social hierarchies within the school setting.

Question 5: Describe how the structure of the UK education system can influence social mobility.

Answer: The UK education system, with its selective elements like grammar schools and unequal funding, can either facilitate or hinder social mobility. Students from privileged backgrounds often have access to better resources and opportunities, making it easier for them to achieve higher qualifications and social positions, thus potentially limiting social mobility for less privileged students.

Question 6: Identify and explain one way that schools might reinforce social inequality.

Answer: Schools might reinforce social inequality through streaming or setting students based on ability, which can track students into different educational paths, often along class lines. This can limit opportunities for lower-achieving or working-class students.

Question 7: Sketch a diagram that represents the 'class reproduction' theory in education. Label the key components and briefly explain each.

Answer: A correct diagram would show the relationship between family background, access to education, and social class. Labels might include 'Family Background,' 'Education System,' and 'Social Class Reproduction,' with arrows indicating how each influences the next, demonstrating how social class is maintained across generations.

Question 8: Describe two strategies schools might use to promote equality of opportunity.

Answer: Schools might implement bursaries or scholarships to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds, and adopt inclusive teaching practices to accommodate diverse needs and reduce barriers to learning.

Question 9: Evaluate the statement: 'Education is a key tool for promoting social equality.'

Answer: Students should consider both sides: Education has the potential to promote social equality by providing equal opportunities, but in practice, inequalities persist due to factors like unequal funding, social background, and systemic biases. Therefore, while education can be a tool for equality, its effectiveness depends on how accessible and fair it is in practice.