HED4809
Assignment 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: May 2026
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
1.1 According to the Functionalist theory, the main role of schooling is to:
a) Challenge dominant power structures
b) Prepare learners for economic, political, and social roles in society
c) Eliminate class differences
d) Promote resistance to authority
The functionalist perspective views education as a system that contributes to social
stability by preparing learners to take up roles in society. Schools transmit shared
values and skills needed for participation in the economy and civic life (Ballantine,
2017; Feinberg & Soltis, 2009).
1.2 The hidden curriculum refers to:
a) Official examination content
b) Informal lessons about discipline, obedience, and authority
c) Government education policy
d) Extra-curricular activities only
The hidden curriculum includes the unwritten and informal lessons learners acquire
in school, such as respect for authority, punctuality, and discipline. These are not
part of the formal syllabus but shape behaviour and social expectations (Feinberg &
Soltis, 2009).
1.3 Robert Dreeben’s norm of achievement emphasises that learners are:
a) Rewarded based on background
b) Judged on effort alone
c) Evaluated according to performance compared to others
d) Not compared with peers
Varsity Cube 2026 +27 81 278 3372
Assignment 1 2026
Unique number:
Due Date: May 2026
Detailed solutions, explanations, workings
and references.
+27 81 278 3372
, QUESTION 1
1.1 According to the Functionalist theory, the main role of schooling is to:
a) Challenge dominant power structures
b) Prepare learners for economic, political, and social roles in society
c) Eliminate class differences
d) Promote resistance to authority
The functionalist perspective views education as a system that contributes to social
stability by preparing learners to take up roles in society. Schools transmit shared
values and skills needed for participation in the economy and civic life (Ballantine,
2017; Feinberg & Soltis, 2009).
1.2 The hidden curriculum refers to:
a) Official examination content
b) Informal lessons about discipline, obedience, and authority
c) Government education policy
d) Extra-curricular activities only
The hidden curriculum includes the unwritten and informal lessons learners acquire
in school, such as respect for authority, punctuality, and discipline. These are not
part of the formal syllabus but shape behaviour and social expectations (Feinberg &
Soltis, 2009).
1.3 Robert Dreeben’s norm of achievement emphasises that learners are:
a) Rewarded based on background
b) Judged on effort alone
c) Evaluated according to performance compared to others
d) Not compared with peers
Varsity Cube 2026 +27 81 278 3372
