Question 1: Define the term 'social class' as used in sociology.

Answer: Social class refers to a group of people who share similar economic, social, and cultural resources, often categorized based on factors such as income, occupation, and education.

Question 2: List three common indicators used to determine a person's social class in the UK.

Answer: Income level, occupation type, and educational attainment.

Question 3: Describe how occupation can influence a person's social status within stratification.

Answer: Occupation influences social status because certain jobs are valued more highly in society, often associated with higher income, prestige, and influence, which can elevate an individual's social class.

Question 4: Explain the concept of social mobility and differentiate between upward and downward mobility.

Answer: Social mobility is the ability to move between different social classes. Upward mobility occurs when a person improves their social standing, while downward mobility happens when they experience a decline in social status.

Question 5: Discuss two factors that can contribute to social inequality in the UK.

Answer: Factors such as unequal access to quality education and disparities in income distribution can contribute to social inequality.

Question 6: Describe a scenario where a family experiences intergenerational social mobility.

Answer: A family where the parents are working-class and their children attend university and become professionals, thereby moving into a higher social class.

Question 7: Sketch a simple diagram illustrating the stratification hierarchy in the UK. Label the different social classes and their typical characteristics.

Answer: A layered diagram with three main sections: upper class at the top (wealthy, influential, often inherited wealth), middle class in the middle (professional, managerial, educated), and working class at the bottom (manual jobs, lower income).

Question 8: Identify and explain two ways government policies can impact social stratification.

Answer: Policies like progressive taxation can reduce income inequality by redistributing wealth, and education funding can improve social mobility by providing equal opportunities for all.

Question 9: Describe how cultural capital can influence an individual's position within social stratification.

Answer: Cultural capital, such as education, language skills, and social etiquette, can give individuals advantages in accessing better jobs and social networks, thus influencing their social position.

Question 10: Reflect on the statement: 'Social class is the most significant factor influencing a person's life chances in the UK.' Do you agree or disagree? Justify your answer.

Answer: [Open-ended; students should argue based on sociological concepts. Example: I agree because social class affects access to education, healthcare, and job opportunities, which shape life chances. Alternatively, some may argue other factors like ethnicity or gender also play a crucial role.]