Exam 1 Name:____________________________________
Introduction to Women’s Studies
Fall 2004
INSTRUCTIONS: Drawing on your knowledge from course readings and class lectures, answer the following questions. You must reference concepts from course readings, and refer directly to at least two readings in each of your answers. Exams are due in class on Monday, Oct. 11.
Answer Both Questions:
1. You have been asked to represent the Women’s Studies Certificate program at new student orientation. It is your task to inform incoming students and their parents about women’s studies as an academic option. Explain to them what women’s studies is, how it developed, and why there is still a need for it. Be sure to dispel the myths students might have about feminism.
2. You and your friend are reading the Tulsa World and come across an article describing a lawsuit against a major corporation. The company has been accused of discrimination in hiring. The lawsuit has been brought against the company by racial minorities, women, and gays and lesbians. Your friend dismisses the lawsuit as “overblown,” and claims, “I know plenty of people who work at that company and none of them are racist, sexist, or homophobic.” Explain to your friend how inequality has been built into our social system and how institutions can be racist/sexist/homophobic even if the individuals within them are not.
Answer ONE of the following:
4. A feminist organization is protesting a beauty pageant at TU. A reporter for the Collegian knows that you are a women’s studies student and wants to interview you for an article. Explain to the reporter a feminist rational behind protesting a beauty pageant.
5. You have been asked to serve on a statewide task force to develop a plan to protect reproductive choice in Oklahoma for women of all races, classes, ages, abilities, and sexualities. Detailing at least three issues surrounding reproductive choice, outline (in narrative form) your initial report to the legislature.
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