Cambridge International A Level · Sociology (9699)

Functionalist and Marxist theories of the role of education: Practice Questions

5 multiple-choice questions marked as you go, and 5 written questions with worked solutions. All on Functionalist and Marxist theories of the role of education.

10 questions26 marksFree, no account
Question 1
1 mark

According to Talcott Parsons, which process in schools ensures that students are placed into appropriate future work roles based on their individual talents and abilities?

Question 2
1 mark

According to the social democratic perspective on education, what is the primary role of the state in relation to the economy?

Question 3
1 mark

Sociologists who argue that the education system is not truly meritocratic often point to the significant impact of structural inequalities. Which of the following best exemplifies a structural inequality that challenges the idea of a meritocratic education system?

Question 4
1 mark

From a social democratic perspective, why is it essential for the state to provide equal educational opportunities?

Question 5
1 mark

According to Marxist views on education, what is the primary purpose of cultural reproduction?

Question 6
2 marks

According to functionalist sociologists, state one manifest function of education in society.

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Question 7
3 marks

Explain how Marxist sociologists argue that education serves as an instrument of ideological control within capitalist societies.

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Question 8
5 marks

Explain how the correspondence principle challenges the functionalist assertion that the education system operates as a meritocratic filter for role allocation.

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Question 9
4 marks

Explain and evaluate the Functionalist perspective on the role of education in society.

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Question 10
7 marks

Evaluate the claim that social class is the most significant factor influencing educational attainment, referring to other sociological factors in your answer.

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