Briefly Gender refers to the common diffences between men and women. Encyclopedia Britannica notes that gender identity is an individuals self conception as being male or female, as distinguished from actual biological sex. Within the social sciences gender refers to social differences , known as gender roles. Historically, feminism has pointed out that many gender roles are socially constructed and lack any clear biological basis. People whose gender identity feels incongruent with their physical bodies may call themselves transgender or genderqueer. 

Dear Grade 12's: gender stereotypes can be very harmful as they suppress individual expression and creativity as well as hinder the individuals personal and proffessional growth. Children learn gender stereotypes from adults. As with gender roles, socialising agents (such as parents, teachers, peers, religious leaders, and the media) pass along gender stereotypes from one generation to the next. Many of these beliefs are so ingrained in people's conciousness that many think that gender roles are natural and do not question them.

Gender Activity 1:

For your homework: Use newspapers or megazines to make two collages for toys that are seen to be associated with girls and boys in your notebook. Below each collage make a list of the toys under each and write next to each top what gender stereotype it reinforces. 

Due on the first Visual Arts lesson back at school.