Answer to Question #204990 in English for Reba

Question

4.1 identify three principles of symbolic interactionism and discuss how you as a teacher would apply these principles I classroom

4.2difine the concept social placement within the school context

4.3 what is a hidden curriculum? Provide two examples of hidden curriculum in the classroom

4. 4 Choose ONE of the three theories covered in socialogy of Education (Functionalism, conflict theory, symbolic interactionism) discuss why your chosen theory provides the best explanation of schools in South Africa

Answer 1

4.1 The three principles of symbolic interactionism include meaning, language and thinking.

Meaning is the center of human behavior. Human beings act towards things and people based on the meanings they have for them. For example, when a president is mentioned, the power image clicks into our mind which affects our behavior when we are around the president.

Language helps in the formulation of meanings by mans of symbols. Language helps in the formulation of names for things. Different languages have different names for the same thing.

Thinking changes the interpretation of individuals pertaining to symbols.

4.2 Social placement refers to the use of education to improve one's social standing. Students are identified by the teachers as bright, less bright, motivated or even educationally challenged. Depending on how they are identified, they are taught at the level that is thought to best suit them.

4.3 Hidden curriculum refers to the unwritten, unofficial and unintended lessons, values and perspectives that students learn in schools. For example punctuality and respecting other students' opinions.

4.4 Functionalism theory provides the best explanation for schools in South Africa. Education system in South Africa helps to prepare the students for later roles in the society. It also helps in the establishments of peer relationships.