Who can help?

Race and Ethnicity

Apply

Explore some of the ways in which the normal functions of society affect certain racial and/or ethnic groups differently. Each student will explore at least 3 forms. Then, type a one paragraph summary of each. Remember to use sociological language/concepts to fully earn the points available.

Some suggestions include:

  • Military laws governing hair length/style

  • Restrictions on displays of religion including burkas, crosses, hijabs, etc.

  • Workplace policies regarding head dress (allowing people to wear hijabs or even hats in the workplace)

  • Policies regarding holidays and missed days at work, school, etc.

  • Places that serve pork, non-kosher foods, or other foods that some groups may regularly avoid

  • (Feel free to explore other ideas not listed on this page. In fact, I encourage this!)

Gender and Sexuality

Explain

Explain the role of socialization in how we develop a sense of gender and a sense of sexuality.

Apply

How does social structure influence our decisions regarding sexuality? Think about how social norms tell us what is acceptable and what is deviant. Also, think about how laws tell us what is legal and what is criminal; who we can marry, who we can have sex with, at what age we can have sex, and where we can have sex.

How does social structure reward certain genders and negatively sanction others?

Explain heteronormativity and give at least one example.