The Intersection of Colonialism and Gender & Sexuality

In this lesson, students will analyze the intersection between colonialism and sexuality, especially in the context of how colonial states use sex as a form of power and control. Students will utilize their critical thinking skills to learn about heteronormativity and the impacts of settler colonialism on Indigenous communities. Through small and large group discussions, students will explore topics covering imperialism, sexuality, and watch videos relating to how federal policies seek to reinforce hetero-patriarchy within the United States.

The Intersection of Colonialism & Sexuality

At the end of this lesson, students should be able to:

1. Understand the problems with heteronormativity in society.

2. Analyze how settler colonialism reinforces heteronormativity in the U.S.

3. Discuss and pose critical thinking questions about high-level readings.

The standards covered in this lesson are: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.2, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.3, CCSS.ELA- LITERACY.RH.11-12.7, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.9

The Intersection of Colonialism & Gender

1. Analyze the similarities and differences in ideas of gender identity across pre-colonial people groups

2. Consider the effect of multiple layers of colonialism on non-Western cultures’ ideas of gender

3. Use different media to consider historical narratives of gender

The standards covered in this lesson are: CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.2, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11- 12.3, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.7, CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.9

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Lesson plan created by Judy Zhang and Rose Clubok

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