Breaking Stereotypes

#HeartBeatsHate

Stereotypes (an oversimplified, widely held fixed image or idea of a particular type/group of person or thing) can be both positive and negative. In this assignment, students will look for examples of racial stereotypes in mass media (TV, film or advertising) to breakdown the impacts these stereotypes.

‍

‍

Background

  1. Stereotypes permeate our culture. As a group, have students brainstorm positive stereotypes (examples: women are good nurturers, Asians are good at math, Jamaicans are good sprinters, etc.).
  2. Now ask students if they’ve ever encountered negative stereotypes (e.g. Asians are bad drivers, African-American males are violent).
  3. Ask students if any of these stereotypes could be applied to them/their family, and whether or not they feel they are accurate.
  4. Introduce and begin project.

‍

Project

1. Introduction: In this assignment we’re going to look at stereotypes in media and work to breakdown the stigma and negative impacts these can have.

2. Have students read This is why everyday racial profiling is so dangerous. Ask students:

  • What in this article shocked you?
  • Did this make you reconsider any biases you hold?

2. Students are to select a TV show, film or advertising campaign (approved by teacher) to analyze. Some examples include:

3. Students create a presentation to the class on what they learned

4. Option: Students create an awareness campaign on the lessons of stereotyping and microaggressions in the media to share at school

‍

Victoria Ford

Victoria thinks the world could do with a lot more heart. Her goal? To encourage others to stand up, speak out and push back against hatred.

Secondary

Stereotypes (an oversimplified, widely held fixed image or idea of a particular type/group of person or thing) can be both positive and negative. In this assignment, students will look for examples of racial stereotypes in mass media (TV, film or advertising) to breakdown the impacts these stereotypes.