Question 1 (Marks: 40)

Q.1.1 In a short paragraph (approximately 400-500 words), explain the roles of various institutions in understanding the relationship between education and sociology. Make use of real-life examples (not cited in the textbook) to highlight this relationship. Please remember to reference your answers as appropriate. (20)

Q.1.2 Explain (in approximately 400 – 500 words) the challenges faced by the education system. Use an example (not cited in the textbook) to highlight these challenges. Please remember to reference your answers as appropriate. (20)

Question 2 (Marks: 20)
By a decision of seven to two in the famous Roe v. Wade case from 1973, the Supreme Court determined that a woman’s right to end her pregnancy was guaranteed by the US constitution. In the first three months (trimester) of pregnancy, the decision guaranteed American women the absolute right to an abortion; however, it also permitted limits in the second trimester and prohibitions in the third. In 2022, the Supreme Court was debating the Mississippi state law prohibiting abortion after 15 weeks in the case Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization. The conservative-majority court effectively put an end to the constitutional right to an abortion by deciding in the state’s favour.

Discuss (in approximately 400-500 words) the major criticism of the biomedical model in terms of the medical control of women’s health. Make use of an example to strengthen your argument. Please remember to reference your answers as appropriate.

Question 3: (60 Marks)

Discuss (in approximately 700-800 words) Weber’s concept of class situation within the context of social inequality in contemporary South Africa. Provide your own evaluation of the corrective interventions implemented in the South African context.

Answers to Above Questions

Answer 1: When it comes to roles of various institutions in understanding the relationship between education and sociology, it can be said that there is a significant role that different types of institutions can play in achieving a positive relationship between education and sociology. For example, educational institutions are considered as one of the major social institutions that exist in society. It is quite useful in establishing a goal of social equality and a common knowledge base among students.