A Level Sociology Education AQA Practice Exam

According to Bernstein (1973), why do working-class students underachieve?

1. They lack access to transportation

2. They are socialised into a restricted language code

3. They have inadequate support from teachers

4. They have lower intelligence

The correct answer is: They are socialised into a restricted language code

The argument presented by Bernstein revolves around the concept of language and its impact on educational achievement, particularly how it varies between social classes. He posits that working-class students often begin their education socialized into what he refers to as a "restricted language code." This mode of communication is characterized by a limited vocabulary and simpler grammatical structures, which can hinder their ability to grasp complex concepts and articulate thoughts effectively within the academic environment. In contrast, middle-class students are typically socialized into an "elaborated language code," which allows for clearer expression, more extensive vocabulary, and nuanced argumentation. This discrepancy in linguistic capabilities can result in working-class students struggling to engage fully with the curriculum, leading to misinterpretations of instructions, difficulties in classroom discussions, and challenges in essay writing. Understanding this distinction highlights the broader implications of language patterns on educational outcomes, correlating with the observed underachievement of working-class students. While factors such as lack of transportation, inadequate support from teachers, and assumptions about intelligence may influence educational experiences, Bernstein's theory specifically emphasizes the significance of language socialization as a primary factor contributing to underachievement in working-class students.