I need help on my sociology homework!

In your intro I would define what a structuralist approach is, and talk about how some are structuralist consensus (Functionalism) and some are structuralist conflict (Marxism). For your first paragraph I would start with a structuralist approach, so maybe a Functionalist, like Parsons' warm bath theory. Outline what they say then link it back to the question. Then in your second paragraph counter that with an approach that isn't structuralist, and link back to the question, etc. I aim for a minimum of 5 paragraphs, with a minimum of 2 in agreement of it being useful.

Is this a gcse or A level question?


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The key thing here is that the question is asking you to "evaluate." This means to test out something, so for every argument you propose you need to write about its pros and cons. For each of the three theories you are looking at, marxism, functionalism and feminism, write down any supprting evidence for their claims (the findings of a related survey for example). Also consider strengths such as acknowledgement of a factor other theories have overlooked. Then in the same way look for contradictory evidence and weaknesses in the claims. It is very worthwhile to play the theories off each other a bit.

My examples are a bit vague because I did this for AS last year but haven't revised it for this year yet and I've forgotten a scary amount. You'll need to go into a lot more detail in your actual essay.


For example functionalism could be praised for recognising the importance of primary socialisation of children within the family. Yet it can be criticised for being too idealistic in assuming all aspects of the family have a definite function in society. Positive evaluation of Marxism could be that they acknowledge the effects of capitalism on the family and are therefore less overly idealistic than the functionalist view. However for negative evaluation, it is very difficult to prove the marxist claims that families are being manipulated to suit the ruling class. Marxist Feminists may also criticise Marxism (marxist feminists are regarded as an offshoot of feminism more than as an offshoot of marxism or so I've been taught, so it is fair to use it to criticise mainstream marxism) for not acknowledging that women are especially vulnerable to exploitation by the ruling class.