Question 1

Which of the following best defines social inequality from a sociological perspective?

Accepted Answer

Any differences among individuals that have consequential effects for the rights, opportunities, privileges, and rewards they enjoy.

Question 2

Based on the Gini coefficient graph, what trend is observed in Canada’s income inequality from 1976 to 2010?

Accepted Answer

Income inequality increased, as indicated by a rise in the Gini coefficient from about 0.28 to over 0.32.

Question 3

Which of the following is an example of an ascribed status?

Accepted Answer

Being born into a particular ethno-racial group.

Question 4

According to the Broadbent Institute’s data on wealth distribution in Canada, what proportion of all wealth is held by the wealthiest 10%?

Accepted Answer

About 48%

Question 5

Which country is ranked as the most committed to reducing inequality, according to the DFI and Oxfam index?

Accepted Answer

Denmark

Question 6

What is the main difference between absolute poverty and relative poverty?

Accepted Answer

Absolute poverty refers to lacking basic necessities for survival, while relative poverty refers to being poor compared to others in the same society.

Question 7

Which group in Canada is most likely to experience persistent low income and poverty, according to the study materials?

Accepted Answer

Indigenous peoples, single mothers, and racialized minorities

Question 8

What does the concept of 'status inconsistency' refer to?

Accepted Answer

When an individual’s position in one hierarchy does not match their position in another hierarchy.

Question 9

Which theory argues that global inequality is primarily the result of exploitative relationships established by wealthy countries over poorer ones?

Accepted Answer

Dependency theory

Question 10

What is the 'race to the bottom' in the context of global inequality?

Accepted Answer

A competition among developing countries to offer lower wages, poorer working conditions, and fewer regulations to attract foreign investment.

Question 11

Which of the following best describes the manifest function of education according to functionalist theory?

Accepted Answer

Transmitting formal knowledge and skills necessary for participation in society.

Question 12

What is the main criticism conflict theorists have regarding the hidden curriculum in schools?

Accepted Answer

It promotes values and behaviours that maintain social inequalities and capitalist interests.

Question 13

According to Annette Lareau’s research, what is 'concerted cultivation'?

Accepted Answer

A middle-class parenting style involving active management of children’s development through structured activities and dialogue.

Question 14

What does the term 'credentialism' refer to in the context of education?

Accepted Answer

The belief that formal qualifications such as degrees and certificates are the best measure of intelligence and aptitude.

Question 15

Which of the following is an example of vertical diversification in Canadian post-secondary education?

Accepted Answer

Creating curricular pathways of varying difficulty, such as programs with higher or lower admissions standards.

Question 16

Based on the data, which group is least likely to have a university degree or higher in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Inuk (Inuit), single identity

Question 17

What is the main function of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action regarding education?

Accepted Answer

To address funding discrepancies, develop culturally appropriate curricula, and protect Indigenous languages.

Question 18

Which of the following best describes the concept of stereotype threat?

Accepted Answer

When an individual’s academic performance is hindered due to fear of confirming a negative stereotype about their group.

Question 19

Which of the following is a key finding about STEM university program graduates by gender in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Male students graduate in much higher numbers than female students in mathematics, engineering, and science fields.

Question 20

Which of the following is NOT a manifest function of education?

Accepted Answer

Reinforcing gender stereotypes through classroom interactions.

Social Inequality and Education: A Sociological Perspective

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