Name Calling

Ask students to raise their hands or stand if they have never been called a name or talked to in a mean or disrespectful way. Most likely there will be very few or no students standing. Note the pervasiveness of name-calling in their lives and how it is often taken for granted as natural or normal.

Write one or more of the following phrases on the board:

• Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names will never hurt me.

• Boys will be boys.

• Teasing is just a natural part of growing up.

• It’s just a joke—everyone says it

Ask students if they agree with the above sentiments, all of which are commonly used to explain or respond to name-calling. Ask if they think name-calling is a problem in their lives or just a natural part of growing up that everyone must endure. Allow some time for discussion.

Are there reasons why students do not speak-up?

If people know name-calling is wrong, why does it keep happening?

What can you do this week to help get rid of name-calling?

What can you do today to help get rid of name-calling?

No-Name Calling Week Resource Guide, Copyright ©2004 by GLSEN, Inc.