Class Differences

• The restricted code is typically used by the WC. It has a limited vocabulary and is based on the use of short, simple sentences. It is descriptive not analytic. It is context-bound: it assumes the listener has the same set of experiences.
• The elaborated code is typically used by the MC. It has a wider vocabulary and more grammatically complex sentences. Speech is more varied and communicates abstract ideas. The elaborated code is context free: the speaker does not assume the listener shares the same experiences so uses language to spell out meaning explicitly.
• Basil Bernstein (1975) argues differences between WC and MC language influence achievement.
• This benefits the MC because the ‘elaborated code’ is the language of school, used by teachers, textbooks and exams. In Berstein’s view it is also more effective for analysing and expressing thoughts clearly – essential in education.

  Therefore the MC feel more at home using the elaborated code, while the WC are more likely to feel excluded by it.
• Parenting style – Educated parents emphasise consistent and “fair” discipline and have high expectations of their children.

  In contrast, less educated WC  parental style is marked by harsh or inconsistent discipline which prevents children from learning independence and self control – leads to disruption at school.
• Douglas (1964) – argues working class parents place less importance on education. As a result, they are less ambitious for their children and give them less encouragement to try hard and do well in school.
• This was further supported by Feinstein (2003) who concluded that a parents’ own education was the most important factor affecting children’s achievement – middle class more likely to have been to university so have an advantage when it comes to socialising children.
• Educated parents also made better use of income – Bernstein and Young (1967) found that MC mothers were more likely to buy educational toys and books, whereas WC mothers did not buy such resources!
• Educated parents are more likely to be aware of how best to help their children in their education
• sugarman 4 key values that act as a barrier to educational sucess

  1.Fatalism: Belief in fate -“What will be will be” and there is nothing you can do to change it. MC emphasise meritocracy and working hard.●2.Collectivism: Value the group rather than the individual whereas MC assume that individuals should not be held back by group loyalties.●3.Immediate gratification: Seeking pleasure rather than making sacrifices.●4.Present time orientation: seeing the here and now, rather than looking to the future.