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Instruction3.docx

Many of us grew up in a world learning that sexuality and gender only come in two forms: gay or straight, male or female. However, as noted in the Times article, "Beyond 'He' or 'She': The Changing Meaning of Gender and Sexuality" by Katy Steinmetz, a growing number of young people and young adults are moving beyond these constructs. Please read Steinmetz's article, which unpacks changing norms around sex, gender, and sexuality using recent survey data and by speaking with young people who self-identity on a spectrum rather than a binary.

After reading the article, please answer the following questions in an essay format. Your reflection essay should have an introductory paragraph addressing question 1 and explaining the thesis (the central point/argument of the article), 2 - 3 body paragraphs addressing questions 2 and 3, and a concluding paragraph addressing question 4. These are rough estimates of paragraph lengths - use your own judgment but remember to practice the art of getting your point across while writing clearly and concisely.

What is binary thinking about sex, gender, and sexuality?

How do individuals who challenge these binaries help us understand that sex and gender are social, not natural, categories? Provide an example using one of the self-identity stories of a young person that Steinmetz documented.

In what ways has changing technology, including the advent of the internet and social media platforms, influenced the erosion of the gender binary? Provide an example from the article.

Lastly, please reflect on your experience growing up in a social environment that framed sex, gender, and sexuality as binaries and how this framing has impacted your life or how you view others around you. Conversely, if you've grown up understanding these concepts as fluid, we welcome you to reflect on that experience. Please know that for this question there are no "right" or "wrong" answers, you may share or discuss what you feel comfortable with, and should you choose to, you could reflect on your own gender identity.

Your total reflection should be no more than 2 - 2 1/2 pages of written text (double-spaced, Times New Roman, size 12 font). Please include your name, the date, TA course information, and a reflection title. Reflections are to be submitted through Canvas and are due before 11:59PM on Monday, Dec. 2nd. For your assignment to upload to Canvas properly documents must be in .doc or .pdf formats.

Given the potential for technical problems submitting online, I recommend that you submit your reflections with plenty of time to troubleshoot. If you have difficulties, please contact your TA.