Gloria: In Her Own Words
- Balance Learning Resources
- Mar 1
- 3 min read
Updated: Sep 2
Grade Level: 11-12
Duration of video: 1 Hour
Themes: Gender equality, Multicultural collaboration, Systemic change, Self-confidence
Lesson Overview:
The video "In Her Own Words" is a documentary that explores the life and work of feminist icon Gloria Steinem. Through interviews and archival footage, it provides insight into Steinem's personal experiences, including her pivotal role in the feminist movement in the 1960s and 1970s. The film delves into her activism, writings, and the evolution of her beliefs on gender equality.
This documentary highlights how Steinem, from a Jewish lineage, worked with a diverse range of multicultural heroines, such as Dorothy Pitman Hughes, Flo Kennedy, and Bella Abzug, who have contributed to the global struggle for gender equality. These women emphasized the intersectionality of gender, race, and culture and inspired Steinem further enriching the narrative of the feminist movement.
Through Steinem's reflections and the stories of multiple heroines, this video presents a multifaceted view of feminism, and the collective effort required to challenge systemic inequalities and create change.
Lesson Objectives:
Students will discuss Gloria Steinem’s contributions to feminist movements and social justice.
Students will reflect on and discuss the impact of her work on women's rights and gender equality.
Students will analyze her personal journey and discuss how her experiences shaped her activism.
Materials:
Projector or screen to show the video
Student Handout # 1 (found at the end of this lesson): Xerox for each student
Whiteboard and markers
Notebooks or paper for students
Pre-Lesson Preparation:
Set up the video and equipment for the class.
Prepare some guiding questions for the class discussion.
Lesson Procedure:
Introduction (10 minutes)
Begin the class by handing out Student Handout #1 (found at the end of this lesson) and briefly introduce Gloria Steinem by focusing on her role as a feminist leader, journalist, and activist. Mention her involvement in founding Ms. Magazine, her advocacy for women’s rights, and her participation in social movements.
Explain that students will watch the video "In Her Own Words," which gives insight into Steinem's personal experiences and views.
Before showing the film, ask students to take notes as they watch the video to answer these questions:
As you watch this film, what impact did Gloria Steinem have on American women and American society at large?
What part of the video made a big impact on you?
Video Viewing (1 hour or show a half an hour in one class period and another half hour in another class period)
Post-Video Discussion (15 minutes)
After the video, facilitate a class discussion using the following questions:
What personal experiences shaped Steinem's activism and beliefs?
What were some challenges she faced as a woman in the public eye, and how did she overcome them?
How did Steinem’s work in Ms. Magazine contribute to the feminist movement in the 1970s?
In what ways has Gloria Steinem’s work influenced society today?
How do you think the media portrayal of women and feminist issues has changed since Steinem’s time?
Encourage students to share their thoughts on how Steinem's ideas about gender equality and women’s rights are still relevant today.
Reflection Activity (5 minutes)
Ask students to write a short reflection in their notebooks or on a piece of paper:
How did watching the video affect your understanding of feminism and women’s rights?
Do you agree with Steinem's views? Why or why not?
What can you do to contribute to the ongoing fight for gender equality?
Conclusion (5 minutes)
Wrap up the lesson by summarizing the key takeaways from the discussion and reflection.
Remind students that Steinem’s work is a part of ongoing conversations about gender equality and social justice.
Provide a brief overview of Steinem's continuing influence in activism and her legacy for future generations.
Homework (Optional):
Have students research a specific event or issue from Steinem’s life and write a report on how it contributed to her activism or the feminist movement.
Assessment:
Informal assessment through participation in the discussion.
Reflection activity to assess understanding of Steinem’s views and the video content.
Note:If possible, have students explore how Steinem’s work continues to influence modern feminist movements, and compare it with other historical or contemporary feminist leaders.
