Active learning ideas
This topic explores the intersection of gender and ethnicity as key drivers of social inequality in contemporary Britain. Students investigate why the gender pay gap persists and how ethnic minorities continue to face systemic barriers in the labor market and justice system. They evaluate different feminist perspectives, from liberal to radical, and examine anti-racist theories.
Activity 01
Groups research the board members of FTSE 100 companies. They count the number of women and people from ethnic minorities, then discuss why these groups are underrepresented at the top.
How does the gender pay gap persist in modern Britain?
Activity 02
Students act out a job interview scenario where subtle biases are present. Afterward, the class discusses how 'institutional racism' or 'gender stereotyping' might manifest in ways that aren't always obvious.
What barriers do ethnic minorities face in the labour market?
Activity 03
Students write down three ways they see patriarchy in everyday life (media, family, school). They share with a partner to see if their examples overlap or differ based on their own experiences.
How do feminists explain patriarchy?
A few notes on teaching this unit
Watch Out for These Misconceptions
The gender pay gap is just because women choose lower-paid jobs.
While job choice is a factor, students need to understand 'horizontal segregation' and 'vertical segregation.' Analyzing data on men and women in the same roles helps students see that the gap persists even when choices are similar.
Racism is only about individual prejudice.
Sociology focuses on 'institutional racism,' where the rules and routines of organizations disadvantage certain groups. A gallery walk of historical and modern policies can help students see how systems, not just people, can be biased.
Methods used in this brief
Functionalist and Marxist Views on Stratification
Students examine how different sociological perspectives explain the existence of social hierarchies. They will contrast consensus and conflict theories regarding wealth distribution.
8 methodologies
Social Class and Life Chances
An exploration of how an individual's social class background impacts their opportunities in education, health, and employment. Students will analyse contemporary data on social mobility in Britain.
8 methodologies
Poverty and the Welfare State
Students will define absolute and relative poverty, exploring the causes and consequences of deprivation. They will also debate the effectiveness and role of the British welfare state.
8 methodologies