STUDY GUIDE — CHAPTER 4: HOW DO SOCIAL ISSUES IMPACT

STUDENTS?
Completing this study guide will help you prepare for the major topic areas on an exam; however, it does
not cover every piece of information found in the chapter or the test questions.0
1. To what does the term at risk refer?
The term "at risk" typically refers to students or individuals who face a higher likelihood of academic
failure, social problems, or negative life outcomes due to various risk factors in their lives. These risk
factors can include poverty, unstable family environments, inadequate access to education, health issues,
and exposure to violence or substance abuse.

2. Describe changes in family composition and relationships as well as key ways teachers might respond
to these circumstances.

Changes in family composition and relationships can significantly impact students' lives. Some key
changes include single-parent households, blended families, and caregivers who may not be biological
parents. Teachers can respond by fostering a supportive and inclusive classroom environment that
acknowledges diverse family structures. They should also maintain open communication with families
and offer resources for family support, such as parent-teacher conferences, counseling services, and
community referrals.

3. Identify the major social problems affecting education and key reasons they have such a great
impact.
Major social problems affecting education include poverty, inadequate access to quality education,
violence in schools, substance abuse, mental health issues, and unequal educational opportunities. These
problems have a great impact because they can hinder students' academic success and overall well-being,
perpetuating a cycle of disadvantage.

4. Discuss the relationship between poverty and other factors which might cause a student to be
considered “at risk”.
Poverty is often intertwined with other risk factors for students. Students living in poverty may face
challenges like inadequate nutrition, unstable housing, limited access to healthcare, and exposure to crime
and violence. These factors can contribute to academic struggles, making poverty a significant risk factor
for students considered "at risk."

5. Discuss the Comer model and its relationship to schools providing support for children at risk.

The Comer model, developed by Dr. James Comer, emphasizes a comprehensive approach to education
that considers not only academic needs but also the social and emotional development of students. It
focuses on collaboration among educators, parents, and communities to create a supportive and nurturing
environment for students. This model recognizes that addressing the needs of students at risk requires a
holistic approach that takes into account their overall well-being.

6. Explain why teachers need to know about the problems of homelessness.

Teachers need to know about the problems of homelessness because homeless students face unique
challenges that can significantly affect their educational experiences. Homelessness can lead to irregular
school attendance, lack of access to basic necessities, and emotional distress. Understanding these
challenges allows teachers to provide support and resources to help homeless students succeed
academically.

7. What can Ruby Payne’s work contribute to help teachers understand the pervasiveness of poverty?
Ruby Payne's work can help teachers understand the pervasiveness of poverty by providing insights into
the mindset, behaviors, and challenges that individuals in poverty often face. Her research highlights the
importance of cultural competency and the need to avoid making assumptions about students from low-
income backgrounds. Teachers can use this knowledge to create more inclusive and empathetic classroom
environments.

8. Describe the goals of sex education programs and several reasons why people support and several
reasons why people oppose such programs.

The goals of sex education programs include providing students with accurate information about human
sexuality, promoting responsible decision-making, preventing unintended pregnancies and sexually
transmitted infections, and fostering healthy relationships. Supporters argue that sex education programs
empower students with knowledge and skills to make informed choices. Opponents may object based on
cultural or moral beliefs, advocating for abstinence-only education or leaving sex education to families.
9. What are some of the things that principals and teachers can do to reduce the incidence of violence?
Principals and teachers can take several steps to reduce the incidence of violence in schools. These
include implementing anti-bullying programs, fostering a positive school climate, providing conflict
resolution training, ensuring proper supervision in common areas, encouraging open communication
between students and staff, and implementing clear disciplinary policies that promote safety and
accountability.

10. List the major reasons students give for dropping out.
Major reasons students give for dropping out of school include academic struggles, lack of motivation,
feeling disconnected from school, family responsibilities, financial pressures, and exposure to negative
peer influences. These factors often interplay, creating a complex web of challenges that can lead
students to disengage from their education.