Author: Agnes Gizo Kolo (Nigeria) | Published on 23 January 2026
Read what Agnes says about this activity
This activity will help learners identify gender bias in common expressions and practice using inclusive, gender-neutral language.
Stage 1: Introduction
Begin by asking learners:
Have you ever heard words that make it sound like only boys or only girls can do certain jobs?
Listen to a few examples shared.
Explain briefly:
Inclusive language represents everyone.
Gender-neutral language avoids favouring one gender.
Examples:
Biased: The policeman is doing his job.
Neutral: The police officer is doing their job.
Inclusive: Every student should bring their pen.
Step 2: Pair/Group Work
Organise learners into pairs or small groups.
Write these sentences on the board:
The chairman opened the meeting.
Each student must hand in his homework.
The policeman stopped the thief.
The doctor must be kind to his patients.
Every boy must clean his desk after class.
Ask them to work together to:
- Identify biased words
- Rewrite each sentence using neutral or inclusive language
|
Sample Rewrites The chairperson opened the meeting. Each student must hand in their homework. The police officer stopped the thief. The doctor must be kind to their patients. Every learner must clean their desk after class. |
Step 3: Sharing & Discussion
Invite each group to share one revised sentence.
Guide the class to notice:
- Which words made the sentence more inclusive
- How small changes make the sentence fairer and clearer
Encourage learners to comment and compare ideas.
Step 4: Application: Creating Gender-Responsive Notices and Signs
Learners work in groups to design a notice or sign for their school.
Each is assigned only one activity to advertise:
- Football Practice
- Dance Practice
- Cooking Club
- Clothing Design Club
The notice/sign should:
- State the day, venue and time
- Mention what participants should bring and what they will do
- Be eye-catching
While creating the sign they should:
- Use neutral and inclusive expressions
- Avoid suggesting the activity is for a specific gender
Groups can present or display their notices afterward.