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Lesson ideas

Satellite self

Students identify important aspects of their identities and consider associated stereotyping. Students examine some stereotype clichés and explore their origins.

These activities highlight the multiple dimensions of identities. They address the importance of individuals self-defining their identities and challenging stereotypes.(*1)

Satellite self
Download and distribute, or draw on the board, Satellite self diagram.

1. Students write their name in the centre of the diagram.
2. Students add identifiers or descriptors they feel are important in defining their identities in each of the satellites. These can include Australian, Vietnamese Australian, Croatian, Christian, Buddhist, Muslim, refugee, female, brother, daughter, athlete, student, rugby player, rock music, violinist, scout, soccer player, or any other descriptor with which they identify.
3. Students share an incident when they were especially proud to identify themselves with one of the descriptors they used.
4. Students share an incident when it was especially painful to be identified with one of the identifiers or descriptors.
5. Students name a stereotype associated with one of the groups with which they identify that is not consistent with who they are and then complete the following sentence:
   I am a/an _____________ but I am NOT a/an _______________ .

Stereotype statements
Brainstorm and list Stereotype statements e.g. Soccer fans are hooligans with the class. (See Teacher's notes)
Distribute the statements to pairs or groups of students to research the origins and discuss the reasoning behind the stereotyping.
A group member presents the findings to the class who may agree or disagree and also question the reasoning.

SHIMAN David A. & McLEAN Barbara J The Prejudice Book, Common Ground, Sydney

Multicultural Supersite by Paul Gorski
Multicultural Pavilion-Awareness Activities