1. Boys and Girls- Is there a difference?
Learning Outcomes;
Think about the influences on boys and girls as they grow up
Consider how you feel about being a girl/ boy

2. Do these toys promote a positive image for girls?
In what ways have the manufacturers of these products stereotyped them for girls?
Do these toys promote a positive image for girls?

3. In what ways have the manufacturers of these products stereotyped them for boys?
Can you think of any other ways that things for boys and girls are different?
What are these products telling boys?

4. What do these sayings say about boys and girls?
Boys are made of slugs and snails and puppy dog’s tails
Big Boys don’t cry
MAN UP
Run like a girl or laugh like a girl
Be Ladylike

5. Gender Messages
Expressions and sayings can influence the way we see ourselves growing up as boys and girls, men and women. These are called ‘gender messages’- they are often about the different roles for males and females and can come from various places- in pairs try to think of where these messages can come from- feedback to the class.
HOME- parents, siblings and other relatives- can you think of an example?
SOCIAL LIFE- friends and peers- can you think of an example?
MEDIA- adverts, TV, social media, films- can you think of an example?
TOYS- computer games, sports equipment- can you think of an example?
SCHOOL- teachers, textbooks, sports- can you think of an example?
CULTURE- religion, ethnic group, traditions- can you think of an example?
How do you think these messages can influence people? Is this a positive thing or not? Discuss as a group.

6. Look at the images below- how does each image illustrate the idea of male and female stereotypes?

7. Girls are too emotional Boys who cry are wimps
Look at the statements below. For each one, decide whether you agree or disagree and why.
Girls are too emotional
Boys who cry are wimps
Girls are better at talking about their emotions than boys
Boys are more logical than girls and better at Maths
Girls need someone strong to protect them
Boys can be just as caring as girls

8. How are each of these going against stereotype?
SHOULD BOYS AND GIRLS BE DEFINED BY THEIR GENDER?

9. On your iPad Notes write down and complete the following sentences- discuss as a group
The best thing about being a boy/ girl is…
I don’t like the way girls/ boys are expected to….
I think that boys/ girls should be able to….
I don’t want to be defined by gender stereotypes because…