November 26, 2012

Loaded Language

Object:       
To bring to students attention words that are often used to describe members of the opposite sex but are actually demeaning and sexist.  They will become aware how these words relate to harassment and disrespect towards others. 

Instructions:
·        On the board make two separate charts with 4 columns under each chart labeled with the words “food,” “plant,”, “animal,” and “other.”  The board should look like this:

Men/Boys                                                                               Women/Girls
 


  Food          Plant        Animal      Other        Food        Plant        Animal        Other


































·         Instruct the class to brainstorm names and words in each category that the groups are called.  Write the names and words on the board under each category.  Stay away from vulgar or profane words.
·         Examples:
o   For “food”:   Honey, sugar, etc.
o   For “plant”:            Rose, weed, etc.
o   For “animal:  Fox, chick, dog, kitten, etc.
o   For “other”:   Babe, hunk, dude, etc.

Discussion:

Ask the students to label each word “negative” or “positive” or to give each one a minus or plus (-, +) sign.  Ask them if any words are neutral and to label them with a zero (0). 

Count the number of positive and negative names/words for each sex.  Identify which sex has the most negative and positive names/words. 

Bring to the students’ attention various words that are often perceived as compliments by the person saying them but are actually demeaning and sexist.  Discuss how these words relate to sexual harassment and disrespect for members of the opposite sex. 

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