Andrews+-+Ch.+10+Exploration+-+RM

Chapter 10 was my personal choice to read this week. The title, "The Languages of Intolerance and Discrimination," was the first thing that caught my attention. Something that is very important to me is creating a welcoming environment for my students. I believe when they feel safe and accepted in the classroom, this not only boosts confidence, but also allows them to focus more on academics as opposed to social blunders. One thing that comes along with a positive classroom climate is eliminating offensive and discriminatory language.

EXPLORATION: It's a Man's World

A. Did you make dinner? B. Some people just aren't as athletic as others. C. There's no crying in team sports. D. The newlyweds may share their first kiss now! E. The opposite sex can be quite confusing. F. My tractor is nice.

1. Stereotyped labels come into the language of popular culture quite often. Most people laugh at them, because they seem harmless, but this just isn't the case sometimes. For example, a common joke right now is women making men sandwiches. This may seem innocent, but it's just perpetuating the rigidity of gender roles.

2. I think most people use these labels unintentionally. When making a "joke," people rarely consider the implications of what they're saying. However, there are definitely some who really do think that women are inferior to men or that one race is superior to another.

3. Unfortunately, I do think this language somewhat reflects society's values. However, I believe we are constantly evolving and progressing as a society and along with that will come a decrease in racial bias and gender discrimination.