Exercise A

Exercise A: Consider how the following sentences reinforce stereotypes and "isms" by their reliance on biased language, then revise the sentences to eliminate the bias. Highlight or circle the “ism” and identify it, then rewrite the sentence to eliminate that “ism” or bias. Racism Ageism Sexism Ableism Heterosexism (homophobia) 1. To a woman who possesses the necessary qualifications, nursing offers a life of unusual interest and usefulness. She will have limitless opportunities to improve herself and to help others. This sentence shows sexism. To anyone who possesses the necessary qualifications, nursing offers a life of unusual interest and usefulness. She will have limitless opportunities to improve herself and to help others. 2. The priest asked, “Are you ready to love and honor each other as man and wife for the rest of your lives?” This sentence shows heterosexism. The priest asked, “Are you ready to love and honor one another for the rest of your lives?” 3. Doctor Frank Martinez, a senior citizen, continues to maintain a vigorous practice despite his age. This sentence shows ageism. Doctor Frank Martinez continues to maintain a vigorous practice. 4. Paraplegic attorney James Alton competes in marathons with other crippled racers who train in wheelchairs. This sentence shows ableism. Attorney James Alton competes in marathons with other racers. 5. Sandra can translate, she speaks Mexican. This sentence shows racism. Sarah can translate, she speaks Spanish.

Exercise B: Now, try the following assessment to see if you can tell the difference between objective or subjective statements: CD34ExerciseBObjorSubj.docDownload CD34ExerciseBObjorSubj.doc Directions: When you observe children, it is important to record your information objectively. An objective description includes only facts about what happened. A subjective description includes your opinions and assumptions. Read each of the following statements. Write “O” in the blank if the statement is objective. Write “S” in the blank if the statement is subjective. O 1. John stands at the table pushing his paint brush around. S 2. John is painting a beautiful picture. S 3. Sean does not like to come to preschool. O 4. Every day Sean arrives with tears in his eyes. O 5. David has red hair, blue eyes, and freckles. S 6. David is a cute kid. O 7. Gail is sitting in the corner not making a sound. O 8. Gail isn’t feeling well today. S 9. Josh is frustrated because he does not know which way to go. O 10. Mike pushed the truck along the floor yelling, “Here I come.” O 11. Jody and Gretchen grabbed Lisa by the shirt. O 12. Jose’ is turning the pages of the story book. S 13. Susan seems to be very smart. O 14. Deanna ran to the shelf and got a box of spools. S 15. Cheryl is happy today because she has a new outfit. S 16. I can’t believe how helpful Lonnie is when it is time to clean up. O 17. Holly sat in the sandbox mashing the sand into the bowl.