• Problem Statement about Equity in Education
• Vision of Change and Goal Clarification
• Historical Background and Current Conditions
• Possible Directions to Achieve Desired Change
• Future Prospects: Suggested Strategies to Alleviate the Problem (200-300 words)

What is the social problem?

In this section of the essay, describe the social problem of Equity in Education.Clearly describe the social problem of inequity and inequality in education. What is the extent, scope and severity of this problem? (Use your text or other scholarly sources to support your description of the problem.) Briefly summarize the negative consequences of this problem to society as a whole and/or to specific groups of people. Why is it important to understand and address this social problem? Why change the status quo?

What is the envisioned change as it relates to the social problem of Equity in Education?

This section of the essay, briefly describe what things would “look like” if the social problem were effectively addressed, minimized, eliminated, or if prevention steps were taken to alleviate undesirable consequences of the problem. What are specific goals to achieve the desired change (e.g., test and implement local programs to address and reduce the problem). Who stands to gain or lose if the envisioned change is realized?

What contextual factors influence this social problem?

This section of the essay, briefly describe two contextual factors that have influenced this social problem (e.g., historical, economic, cultural, technological factors). Explain the purpose of public education as a social institution. Use the functionalist, conflict, and symbolic interactionist perspectives to explain the importance of this social institution.

Select one of thesociological theories (functionalist theory, conflict theory, symbolic interactionist theory) to briefly explain this social problem, given the contextual conditions you have identified.

What is needed to achieve the vision of change and address the identified social problem?

This section of the essay, briefly summarize and provide a rationale for adopting one possible direction to achieve the desired change (e.g., prevention, intervention, social reform, and reconstruction), alleviating consequences. (Refer to Chapter 1 Section 1.4 Future Prospects: Solving Social Problems inIntroduction to Social Problems).

Finally, in this section of the essay, propose two to three practical steps or strategies to address the social problem. What are the strengths/limitations of your proposed strategies?