For the PME Year 1 Sociology of Education essay, there were four specific features expected to be covered (as outlined by lecturer Brian M. Donovan):
1) Select a sociological theme from class (see slides starting with Deficit Theory in class 3; note that I tried to present either contrary perspectives on topics [for instance, I contrasted deficit theory with strengths perspectives] for a broader range of topics--select a theme that appeals to you and might motivate you towards a more meaningful essay;
2) Once you have selected a theme, search for and select an image to use for applying that theme; the image can be concrete (an image of a classroom/school); abstract (whatever abstract image of a classroom or school you can locate); or metaphorical (again, you are art students and likely are imaginative), and it is easy to locate such images;
3) In your essay, first, detail 3-4 specific features of the theme selected; THEN, analyse your image by applying those 3-4 features of the theme to the image (you need not say the theme fits the image, or conflicts with the image)--if you have ANY questions about what I am asking for, please email me;
4) Next, write a short, but detailed, personal reflection of your time in school that uses the same 3-4 features of the them to your personal experience.