What's in a Word?
Examines how language in media can imply inequality between men and women. Using the activities provided, girls will learn to examine their own use of gender-specific language and how to use gender neutral terms when writing and speaking.

Rules for Gender Portrayal in Ads
Read through these rules based on a code developed by the Canadian advertising industry, and then examine ads fashion magazines to see if the guidelines are adhered to.

Perceptions of Youth and Crime
This activity guide raises awareness of how youth violence is sensationalized in the media and the negative stereotyping of youth that results from this kind of coverage.

Magazine Survey
Using current copies of teen magazines, have your Pathfinder Unit explore how girls are portrayed in these magazines and what gender messages they are promoting.

Stereotypes discussion starters
Ask the girls to think about how realistically women and girls are portrayed on their favorite shows:

• Do the girls and women on TV look like you or anyone you know? Do the girls behave like you and your friends?
• Do the mothers in your favourite shows work outside the home? What kind of jobs do they have? Do you know anyone's mother who has this kind of job?
• Think of three girl characters who are similar to you and three who are different from you.
• Who is the strongest, smartest and boldest girl on television. Why?
• Who is the strongest, smartest and boldest woman on television. Why?
• What girl or woman on TV is not strong, smart and bold?

(These questions are from the Girls Re-cast TV Action Kit from Girls Inc. Reprinted with permission)