In this activity, you will examine how the media constructs gender norms.
Pick from one of the following forms of media, and examine the gendered images and messages created about what it means to be a man and woman in society: magazines (American Girl and Scout Life are great choices), television advertisements, a film, or social media.
- As you examine your form of media, write your answers to these questions:
- What messages are being conveyed about what it means to be a boy or man or girl or woman in society?
- Do the images and messages you see maintain the gender binary, challenge it, or redefine it?
- How are people “doing gender” in this form of media?
- Be sure to respond to at least one of your classmates’ posts.