Personal theory & reflection essay

Activity Instructions:

“A feminist is anyone who recognizes the equality and full humanity of women and men.” ~ Gloria Steinem

Part 1:

Briefly summarize you personal theories of gender at the end of this semester by discussing how you viewed gender before this class and how your understandings have evolved.

• How would you describe your understanding of the gender binary, gender performance, gender socialization, intersectionality, masculinities, and gender diversity etc. 
• Based on the materials this week, explain your definition of “everyday sexism” and how it connects to some of these concepts. 
• Please describe an example of something in real life (other than what is presented in the material) that you would consider falling under your definition of everyday sexism. Why do you think this example is important and something people should think about/be aware of? 
• How can we understand this example intersectionally? What is the potential impact on both individuals and society? 

In this section it is critical to cite specific examples from the readings, video, discussions, and/or assignments to support your arguments. This does not mean you need to agree with all of the authors, but you should be able to explain the ideas you are discussing. Do not limit yourself to the most recent readings. Reference any assignment or reading/video that stuck out to you throughout the semester. 

Part 2:

Please discuss how you feel you performed in the class overall and how well you have learned and demonstrated understanding of gender in society. For this section, you are evaluating your learning and how you think you have improved since the beginning of the semester. I will be taking your honest reflection into grading as well as the evidence you provide.

• Which specific topics or assignments do you believe highlight your best work and why?
• Which topics or assignments do you think could have been better or you still need better understanding on and why?
• What do you think is the most important topic/concept/idea you worked on this semester and why?

Conclusion:

End your paper by discussing ways you have applied ideas from class to real life. This can include:

• Conversations you have had with friends or family
• Occasions when you have observed concepts in movies, TV or music
• Times when you have noticed concepts at home, school, or work (outside of our class)
• Any other relevant example- you have all done great work with this all semester in your discussion and activities.

This essay should reflect your true experiences, beliefs, and feelings- not what you think I or anybody else might want to hear. The essay will not be graded based the content of your theory, it will be graded on the basis of whether you took it seriously and answered the questions and explained your ideas coherently, completely, and to the best of your ability.

Papers should be between 700 – 1000 words (3-4 pages doubles spaced) and written in essay format with a clear introduction, paragraphs separated by subject, and a conclusion. You should also be sure to fully explain your ideas and include a works cited page for all sources. (I prefer ASA citations but you may use any format).

MATERIAL NEEDED:

https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2020/03/feminism-womens-rights-coronavirus-covid19/608302/

https://nmsu.kanopy.com/product/mask-you-live