What are Stereotypes?

1. Small Group Discussion:

 a. Identify the social groups (cliches) at Parkview High School.

 b. List several characteristics and several values of each group.

 c. Discuss which group each of your group members feels he or she belongs to.
bullet Which other groups do or would you associate with?
bullet Which groups would you never associate with?  Why?
bullet What characteristics or values do these groups have that conflict with yours?
bullet Do those groups feel the same way about your group?
bullet Discuss why each group holds those views of the other groups.


d. Discuss the implications of such observations and conclusions:
bullet What happens when people make these kinds of assumptions about others?
bullet What are the positive and negative consequences of identifying yourself with a particular group and excluding yourself from other groups?
bullet What forms of group identification are legitimate? Which are unjustified?
bullet Why do people make such unjustified distinctions?
bullet Why is it hard to express attitudes that conflict with those of your group?
bullet How do group members respond to dissent?  Why?
bullet How does the group members’ response make the dissenter feel?


2. A representative from each group will share the group’s observations with the class.