Question 1
1.1 How is the concept 'class' explained by the following theorists?
a) A conflict theorist (3)
b) A functionalist theorist (3)
1.2 Discuss the two types of citizenship education and indicate which approach (active or
passive) you think is the best one for learners. Substantiate your answer. (10)
1.3 Explain the main aspects of citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa. (4)
1.1
a) A conflict theorist would explain the concept of 'class' as a result of the ongoing struggle between
different social groups and their unequal access to resources and power. They would argue that class
divisions are inherent in capitalist societies and that social inequality is perpetuated by those in
power to maintain their dominance.
b) A functionalist theorist would explain the concept of 'class' as a necessary and functional part of
society. They would argue that class divisions serve a purpose in maintaining social order and
stability. They would view social inequality as a natural outcome of the unequal distribution of talent,
skills, and effort within society.
1.2
, The two types of citizenship education are active citizenship education and passive citizenship
education.
Active citizenship education focuses on encouraging learners to actively participate in their
communities, work towards social justice, and contribute to positive change. It emphasizes critical
thinking, problem-solving, and the development of skills and knowledge necessary for active
citizenship. This approach empowers learners to take responsibility for their actions and engage with
the issues affecting their communities.
Passive citizenship education, on the other hand, focuses on teaching learners about the rights and
responsibilities of citizenship without actively encouraging them to participate in civic activities. It
emphasizes knowledge acquisition and the transmission of traditional values and norms. This
approach may create passive citizens who simply comply with existing power structures without
questioning or challenging them.
In my opinion, the active citizenship education approach is the best one for learners. This approach
equips learners with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to actively engage with societal
issues and work towards positive change. It encourages critical thinking, empathy, and agency,
empowering learners to become active participants in shaping their communities and society at
large.
1.3
The main aspects of citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa include:
1) Democracy and Human Rights: Citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa places a strong
emphasis on democratic values and principles. It aims to foster an understanding of human rights,
equality, and social justice, promoting respect for diversity and the inclusion of marginalized groups.
2) Multiculturalism and Diversity: Given the history of apartheid and its impact on racial and ethnic
divides, citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa seeks to promote multiculturalism and
celebrate diversity. It acknowledges and addresses the challenges of social cohesion in a diverse
society, emphasizing the importance of tolerance, understanding, and respect for different cultures
and identities.
3) Social and Economic Justice: Citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa also addresses
the legacy of economic inequality and poverty. It seeks to empower learners to identify and
challenge social and economic injustices, and to actively participate in efforts to address these issues.
It promotes a sense of social responsibility and encourages learners to work towards a more
equitable society.
1.1 How is the concept 'class' explained by the following theorists?
a) A conflict theorist (3)
b) A functionalist theorist (3)
1.2 Discuss the two types of citizenship education and indicate which approach (active or
passive) you think is the best one for learners. Substantiate your answer. (10)
1.3 Explain the main aspects of citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa. (4)
1.1
a) A conflict theorist would explain the concept of 'class' as a result of the ongoing struggle between
different social groups and their unequal access to resources and power. They would argue that class
divisions are inherent in capitalist societies and that social inequality is perpetuated by those in
power to maintain their dominance.
b) A functionalist theorist would explain the concept of 'class' as a necessary and functional part of
society. They would argue that class divisions serve a purpose in maintaining social order and
stability. They would view social inequality as a natural outcome of the unequal distribution of talent,
skills, and effort within society.
1.2
, The two types of citizenship education are active citizenship education and passive citizenship
education.
Active citizenship education focuses on encouraging learners to actively participate in their
communities, work towards social justice, and contribute to positive change. It emphasizes critical
thinking, problem-solving, and the development of skills and knowledge necessary for active
citizenship. This approach empowers learners to take responsibility for their actions and engage with
the issues affecting their communities.
Passive citizenship education, on the other hand, focuses on teaching learners about the rights and
responsibilities of citizenship without actively encouraging them to participate in civic activities. It
emphasizes knowledge acquisition and the transmission of traditional values and norms. This
approach may create passive citizens who simply comply with existing power structures without
questioning or challenging them.
In my opinion, the active citizenship education approach is the best one for learners. This approach
equips learners with the skills, knowledge, and mindset needed to actively engage with societal
issues and work towards positive change. It encourages critical thinking, empathy, and agency,
empowering learners to become active participants in shaping their communities and society at
large.
1.3
The main aspects of citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa include:
1) Democracy and Human Rights: Citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa places a strong
emphasis on democratic values and principles. It aims to foster an understanding of human rights,
equality, and social justice, promoting respect for diversity and the inclusion of marginalized groups.
2) Multiculturalism and Diversity: Given the history of apartheid and its impact on racial and ethnic
divides, citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa seeks to promote multiculturalism and
celebrate diversity. It acknowledges and addresses the challenges of social cohesion in a diverse
society, emphasizing the importance of tolerance, understanding, and respect for different cultures
and identities.
3) Social and Economic Justice: Citizenship education in post-apartheid South Africa also addresses
the legacy of economic inequality and poverty. It seeks to empower learners to identify and
challenge social and economic injustices, and to actively participate in efforts to address these issues.
It promotes a sense of social responsibility and encourages learners to work towards a more
equitable society.
