When was the first time you heard “thats so gay” and more

1. Watch the brief 3-minute ad below and think about when was the first time you heard the phrase (“you/he/she ___________s like a girl!”). Alternately, you can choose to think about the first time you heard the phrase (“you’re/that/it’s/they’re so gay!”)

2. Describe in one to two paragraphs when you first heard this phrase (whichever you chose “like a girl” or “so gay”). Explain what the situation was, how old you were, whether it was toward you (personally), someone you were with, or saw/heard/read in a media outlet. Discuss if it made you feel anything (e.g. good, indifferent) and your response if applicable (e.g. laughter, anger).

3. Draw from the readings (at least 3) and videos (at least 1) to explain how the use of these phrases shapes an individual’s experience, agency, opportunities, desires, sexuality and/or perceptions of themselves or others. When and how did these phrases become bad/negative/used as insults? When and how did they get so much power? Consider a dominant gender/sex binary as well as the role Intersectionality has in how these phrases are used and what they mean.

4. Finally, discuss how you think we (as a society) and you (as an individual) can combat the use of these phrases in day to day conversation. How can we work to empower “girls” and “gays” in a meaningful, positive way (vis a vis the use of language).

5. Do not forget to include a References page at the end of your document. Failure to do so will result in an automatic 0.

SOURCES:
https://www.huffpost.com/entry/slut-gender-policing-as-bullying-ritual_b_1952205

https://www.thedailybeast.com/hysteria-and-the-long-strange-history-of-the-vibrator

Writing Assignments (35 points each x 2 writing assignments=70 points total): There will be 2 writing assignments due throughout the course. They will be worth 35 points each for a total of 70 points. Writing assignments must be a minimum of 2 full pages, written in Times New Roman font with 1-inch margins. You must EXPLICITLY engage with and cite materials throughout your posts in order to earn full credit. So be sure to cite the materials you use! Please note that this is an upper level college course so in all writing assignments critical analysis should be at the forefront. Centering personal experiences or anecdotes is not appropriate without integrating learning materials from the class. Be sure to edit thoroughly before you submit.