Writing Prompts

GENDER BIAS, SEXISM AND AMERICAN SOCIETY

Miles of Aisles of Sexism by Professor Sudie Hoffman
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The American Dream can be defined in various ways. We have been told for many
generations that if we work hard, then we can achieve anything we set our minds on.
However, some Americans are less able to achieve their dreams, not necessarily because
they are not working hard enough. As we critically read, analyzed, and discussed Miles
of Aisles of Sexism by Professor Sudie Hoffman, we explored certain American societal
values that socialize young boys and girls as they navigate through the segregated toy
aisles. Hoffman claims, The segregation under those neon lights is a fairly good
predictor for what is to come, both in terms of earning power and career choice.

In a well-written response (think at least three well-developed body paragraphs),

please answer the following prompts:

PROMPT #1 GENDER BIAS

Citing Hoffmans text and your robust background knowledge of current events and
American history, identify and explain various examples of gender bias in American
society.

Utilizing the text and your background knowledge, explain what roles men and women
are expected to fulfill in our society?

You are required to cite meaningful evidence from Hoffmans text.

You must also generate key examples and evidence from your background knowledge of
current events, media or your historical understanding to support your response.

PROMPT #2 IMPACT OF GENDER BIAS

Describe how these reinforced gender biases affect the socialization of young boys and
girls. Interpret the expected behaviors boys/men are expected to display with other
boys/men and the expected behaviors girls/women are expected to display with other
girls/women. Interpret the career choices men and women are expected to pursue.
Describe how these reinforced gender biases affect the dream careers of young boys and
girls. Interpret the career choices men and women are expected to pursue.
You are required to use evidence from the text.
You must also use evidence from your background knowledge of current events,
media, or your historical understanding to support your response.

PROMPT #3 SEEING SEXISM & GENDER INEQUALITY IN AMERICA

Besides the workplace (as Hoffmans article clearly argues), brainstorm and discuss at
least three significant instances or examples of sexism and gender inequality impacting
American society today.

In what other areas or parts of society do we continue to witness troublesome, unjust

examples of sexism and gender inequality?

Explain the larger impacts and implications occurring considering the fact this
inequality or -ism continues to exist in our society.

You may cite evidence from your background knowledge of our diverse communities
in the United States along with your knowledge of history and critical understanding of
current events and media to support your response.