Eden C. Stein
The unit on stereotypes will begin with basic definitions and the exploration of key terminology used such as stereotype, discrimination, gender, feminism, and equity. Students could briefly study the history of feminism by assigning small groups some key figures to research and present on such as Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Susan B. Anthony, Lucretia Mott, Alice Paul, Gloria Steinem, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, bell hooks, Malala Yousafzai, Audre Lorde, Alice Schwarzer, and Rigoberta Menchu.5 Then, in order to maximize student engagement with the topic, they could brainstorm a list of stereotypes and gender roles that would then be discussed with the class. Next, students will read nonfiction texts about gender stereotypes and examine data in an easily understandable infographic such as “Gender by the Numbers.”6 Care should be taken to make sure both genders are included in the text to keep the boys in the class invested in the topic.7 In addition, boys could examine the concept of feminist men and how feminism has impacted male gender roles. In order to help students see the broad implications of this issue, a science article such as “Stereotypes Might Make ‘Female’ Hurricanes Deadlier” could also be read and text responded to. Students will delve more deeply into this topic in a jigsaw group format with additional nonfiction texts such as “Math Isn’t Just for Boys,” an article which addresses how girls are impacted by other people’s beliefs; “How our Education System Undermines Gender Equity,” which discusses possibilities for change; and Emma Watson’s “HeForShe” speech to the United Nations.