Discussed the impact of gender on communication and the nature of gender expectations and stereotypes. Additionally, there were opportunities to address these issues in your small groups. For your individual papers, integrate what you learned from those experiences with your own understanding of gender issues as you consider the following topics. Be specific and comprehensive; use examples from personal experience as well as from class to corroborate your assertions. You may also use researched material in your paper. Make sure you identify your sources.

Topics to consider:

Discuss your own perceptions of gender expectations and gender stereotypes in relation to other group members. Do you agree/disagree with those of your small group?

Who/what has shaped your perceptions of masculine/feminine behaviors? How have these influences shaped your own behaviors? Have gender expectations inhibited you? Have they limited your potential? Do you feel the need to conform to cultural expectations and to what extent?

How have gender roles and expectations changed over time? Consider your parents and grandparents. How did expectations shape their behaviors in the family, in the workplace, socially, in the academic arena?

Discuss the ways in which men and women have benefited, or not, from changes in gender expectations over the past several decades. How have you personally benefited, or not, from these changes?

Focus your discussion; do not attempt to answer all of these questions; choose a few of them and discuss in depth.

Use standard type and margins. Use complete sentences and check spelling and grammar before submitting paper.