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      Stereotypes and their impact

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can describe what stereotypes are, and explain their impact and how to challenge them.

      Key learning points

      1. Sometimes, people might make assumptions about things.
      2. Stereotypes are assumptions that people make about others based on their characteristics.
      3. If we can identify assumptions, we can challenge stereotypes.
      4. Stereotypes limit what we imagine ourselves and others can achieve.
      5. If we safely challenge stereotypes, the world will be a fairer and better place.

      Keywords

      • Assumption - a feeling or belief about something or someone which is not based on evidence

      • Stereotype - an unfair belief about someone based on their characteristics

      Common misconception

      Stereotypes are true because they are based on evidence.

      Stereotypes are not true. They are based on assumptions, which are ideas that people believe to be true, even though there isn't any evidence to support them.

      Teacher tip

      Consider looking at role models in the media, such as sports personalities who have disabilities, or those who have overcome gender stereotypes. You may also wish to discuss how pupils can seek support from trusted adults if they experience or witness stereotyping.

      Content guidance

      Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

      Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour

      Supervision

      Adult supervision recommended

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0
      except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions
      (Collection 2).

      Lesson video

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      Prior knowledge starter quiz

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Everyone is different and , and that's what makes us special.

      Correct Answer: unique

      Q2.
      Which of these is an example of treating someone unfairly because they are different?

      helping a classmate who uses a wheelchair to reach a book
      learning about different cultures in your class
      Correct answer: not letting someone join a game because of how they look
      making friends with someone new at school

      Q3.
      True or false? It's ok to be curious and ask respectful questions to learn more about people who are different from us.

      Correct answer: True - being curious helps us understand and celebrate differences.
      False - we should never ask questions about differences.
      True - but only if the person looks exactly like us.

      Q4.
      What is the name of the law that protects people in Britain from discrimination?

      Correct Answer: The Equality Act of 2010, The Equality Act, Equality Act of 2010, The Equality Act 2010, Equality Act

      Q5.
      What does it mean if something is 'fair'?

      everyone gets exactly the same thing
      the tallest person always goes first
      Correct answer: everyone gets what they need to have the same opportunities
      only some people are allowed to join in

      Q6.
      Which word means an important trait or feature of a person?

      discrimination
      Correct answer: characteristic
      protected
      illegal

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Match the word to the definition.

      Correct Answer:assumption,a belief about something or someone which is not based on evidence

      a belief about something or someone which is not based on evidence

      Correct Answer:stereotype,an unfair belief about someone based on their characteristics

      an unfair belief about someone based on their characteristics

      Correct Answer:challenge,to stop something from happening

      to stop something from happening

      Q2.
      Are stereotypes true because they are based on evidence?

      Yes, stereotypes are always true and based on facts.
      Correct answer: No, stereotypes are based on assumptions without evidence.
      Yes, if lots of people believe them then they must be true.
      No, but only some stereotypes are untrue.

      Q3.
      Dan heard someone say "All children who wear glasses are really good at maths." What has this person done?

      described what all children are like
      given Dan a compliment
      stated a fact based on research
      Correct answer: made an assumption without evidence

      Q4.
      How can stereotypes affect people?

      Correct answer: they can make people feel left out
      they can make learning easier
      Correct answer: they can make people feel judged
      they can make people feel more confident

      Q5.
      What can happen when we challenge stereotypes?

      Correct answer: people feel more valued and accepted
      nothing changes and stereotypes stay the same
      people get upset and things get worse
      Correct answer: the world becomes a fairer and better place

      Q6.
      When challenging stereotypes, we should stay calm and respectful, and speak to a trusted if we feel unsafe.

      Correct Answer: adult, grown up, grown-up, parent or carer, teacher

      To help you plan your 4 RSHE (PSHE) lesson on: Stereotypes and their impact, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...