Class Flashcards
What types of speech code are identified by Bernstein?
The restricted code - used by the working class, short, unfinished, grammatically simple sentences
The elaborated code - used by the middle class, wider vocabulary, longer, more complex sentences.
How do speech codes effect children in school?
Middle class students are put at an advantage because the elaborated speech code is used by teachers, textbooks and exams
What does Douglas say about the impact of parents’ education?
Working class parents placed less value on education - thus gave less encouragement and took less interest in their education
How does parenting style affect children?
Educated parents - consistent discipline & high expectations
Less educated parents - harsh and inconsistent discipline emphasising ‘doing as your told’ & ‘behaving yourself’
What did Bernstein & Young find about the use of income for education?
Middle class mothers more likely to buy educational toys, books and activities
What are the four features of working-class subcultures that act as a barrier to educational achievement?
Fatalism - ‘what will be will be’
Collectivism - valuing being part of a group more than succeeding as an individual
Immediate gratification - pleasure now rather than making sacrifices to get rewards in the future
Present-time orientation - present more important than the future
How can poverty be seen to link to educational underachievement?
90% of failing schools are located in deprived areas
Exclusion and truancy are more likely for children from poorer families
How can poor housing affect achievement?
Overcrowding means less room for homework, disturbed sleep
Moving homes can mean disrupted education
Cold and damp can cause ill health, may be psychological distress from having to move
How can health affect achievement?
Low intakes of energy, vitamins and minerals may lead to weakening immune systems and subsequent absences from school
