Which factor is NOT typically cited as contributing to ethnicity and achievement gaps?

• A. Genetic differences in intelligence
• B. Cultural capital and language
• C. Parental support
• D. Stereotype effects

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is whether achievement gaps between ethnic groups are explained by social and educational factors rather than biology. The factor that is not typically cited is genetic differences in intelligence. Research and policy discussions focus on how a student’s background—such as access to cultural resources and language skills (cultural capital and language), the level of parental support, and the effects of stereotypes on performance (stereotype threat)—influence schooling outcomes. These factors point to social and institutional mechanisms that can widen or reduce gaps. Attributing gaps to genetics has been controversial and is not supported as a robust explanation for observed differences, because it overlooks environmental influences and can obscure how inequalities in opportunity shape achievement.