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

To evaluate the sociological explanations for differences in educational achievement between ethnic groups, one must examine both external factors, such as home and family life, and internal factors, such as school environments.

Role of Home and Family Life

Some sociologists argue that home background plays a critical role in shaping educational outcomes. For instance, cultural capital, as proposed by Pierre Bourdieu, suggests that families with greater resources can provide educational advantages to their children. This includes not just financial support but also social networks and cultural knowledge that align with school expectations.

Impact of School Factors

Conversely, other sociologists argue that factors within schools may hold more significance. For instance, the analysis of institutional racism is crucial. It highlights how schools may perpetuate inequalities through biased curricula, lower expectations for certain ethnic groups, and discriminatory practices that affect students' performance.

Conclusion

Ultimately, while external factors like family background are undeniably important, it may be more impactful to focus on how schools operate and the implicit biases that exist within educational systems. This dual approach allows for a more comprehensive understanding of educational disparities among ethnic groups.