Read Item B below and answer the question that follows - AQA - A-Level Sociology - Question 4 - 2019 - Paper 1

In evaluating the sociological explanations for differences in educational achievement between ethnic groups, we can examine two primary perspectives: the role of home and family life and the significance of school factors.

Home and Family Life

Sociologists such as Douglas argue that parental attitudes play a significant role in children's educational success. For instance, middle-class parents often possess more educational resources, which can enhance their children's academic outcomes. Cultural capital, as discussed by Bourdieu, suggests that the cultural knowledge and skills passed from parents can significantly affect educational achievement. The idea of material deprivation, where families from disadvantaged backgrounds lack the resources to support their children’s education, is also salient here.

School Factors

On the other hand, some sociologists emphasize the importance of factors within the school environment. This perspective includes issues such as teacher expectations, the hidden curriculum, and institutional racism. For example, Wright's work on teacher interactions with students shows that ethnic minority students may face lower expectations from teachers, which could adversely affect their performance. Furthermore, the National Curriculum has been critiqued for being ethnocentric, which might alienate minority students and lessen their engagement with the educational content.

Conclusion

Ultimately, both perspectives offer valuable insights. Home and family life can provide essential support for educational achievement, yet the school environment and systemic issues also play a crucial role. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of educational achievement among ethnic groups must consider the interplay between these factors, suggesting that addressing only one aspect may lead to incomplete solutions.