Material Deprivation Flashcards
Nell keddie 1973
Nell Keddie (1973) argues that cultural deprivation is a ‘myth’ and that it is a victim-blaming explanation.
She argues that W/C children are simply culturally different, not deprived.
Rather than seeing W/C culture as deficient, schools should recognise it, challenge teachers prejudices and build on its strengths!
Material deprivation
The term ‘material deprivation’ refers to poverty and a lack of material necessities such as adequate housing and income.
Children from W/C backgrounds
> Are less likely to be found in preschool.
Are more likely to fall behind in reading, writing and maths.
Are more likely to have poor attendance at school due to ill health.
Are more likely to be placed in lower sets/streams.
Are more likely leave school at 16.
Children from m/c backgrounds
> Are more likely to do better in all levels of their education.
Are more likely to have better attendance at school.
Are more likely to start school with some knowledge of reading, writing and maths.
Are more likely to complete their homework.
Are more likely to be placed in the top sets/streams.
Are more likely to enter higher education.
USEFUL FACTS:
In 2012, only a third of children receiving free school meals gained 5 or more GCSE’s at A*-C compared to nearly two thirds of pupils not receiving free school meals.
Exclusion and truancy are more likely for children from poorer families. They are unlikely to return to mainstream school.
Nearly 90% of ‘failing schools’ are located in deprived areas.
Housing
Overcrowding: harder to study and less room for educational activities.
Families living in temporary accommodation may find themselves having to move frequently: how would this affect educational achievement?
Diet and health
Marilyn Howard (2001) argues that children from poorer homes have lower energy levels due to lack of vitamins and minerals.
This can lead to illness and ultimately, absence from school!
Poorer children are also more likely to have behaviour problems. Wilkinson (1996): among 10 year olds, the lower the social class, the higher the rate of hyperactivity.
Financial support and cost of education
David Bull (1980): ‘the costs of free schooling’ EG: textbooks, trips, equipment uniform etc.
As a result, children may have to ‘make do’ with hand-me-downs and cheaper but unfashionable equipment, leading to bullying and being stigmatised.
Tess Ridge (2002) found that these children are often more likely to adopt part time jobs!
