Elementary School
Goal: Muddy the gender binary system by challenging gender norms and encourage free expression while providing introductory material for basic media literacy.
Our Disclaimer About Media Literacy: These questions act as a starting point to begin to deconstruct everyday exposure to media, but are by no means extensive. Find opportunities in all types of lessons to integrate a beginning analysis of the media that surrounds us.
Grades K-3
Teaching Tools/Classroom Environment
|
Communication
|
Books
Classroom Activities and Playtime Suggestions
Play Centers
Integrate rotatable playtime centers that include a wide variety of both traditionally gendered and neutral toys. During recess or playtime set up a time limit for each child/group of children to be at each station. Encourage young boys to see the kitchen set and dress up sections as just another way to play and express themselves. Also encourage little girls to experiment with building blocks and play with toy tractors as ways to further their kinetic development. Equally encourage all children to participate in any activity they enjoy, regardless of the gendered stereotypes surrounding it. |
Career Conversations
Bring in professionals from all types of career sections, specifically non-gender stereotypical employees in order to show students the diversity of all fields. We believe it is important for young students to have a possible frame of reference that they can identify with for future endeavors and dreams. Representation is important- you cannot be it unless you see it. Though this activity uses the binary of gender, we believe that in younger education it successfully combats subtle sexism. Possible speakers to bring in could include a male nurse, female firefighter, male clothing designer, female pilot, female scientist, stay-at-home dad, etc... |
Grades 4-5
Books
Classroom Activities and Projects
Women's Day Fair
Every year on International Women's Day (March 8) have students participate in a Women's Day Fair. Each student picks a prominent woman in history and completes a creative project them, outlining their goals and contributions to current society. Teachers can provide a set list of women for students to pick from or can approve each student's decision separately. Encourage students to pick women from science, politics, literature, etc..., not necessarily pop stars. |
Reflection At the end of each week have students complete a reflection about their accomplishments and areas for improvement. Have students list two things they have done to be proud of (an improved grade, made a new friend, stood up to a bully, etc...). Also have them list one thing that they think they need to work on for next week (more time for homework, talking to a new person, raising their hand more, etc...) |