Lesson Plan
Gender Inclusivity Lesson Plan
Introduce 7th graders to gender inclusivity, emphasizing respect, empathy, and supportive behaviors towards diverse gender identities.
This lesson helps students understand the importance of inclusivity and acceptance. It encourages empathy and creates a safe space for all, ensuring everyone feels valued and respected.
Audience
7th Grade Students
Time
30 minutes
Approach
Engage students with discussions and interactive activities to explore gender identities.
Materials
Prep
Preparation
10 minutes
- Review the Gender Inclusivity Lesson Plan thoroughly.
- Familiarize yourself with key terms and concepts of gender inclusivity.
- Prepare discussion prompts and interactive activity guidelines.
- Ensure a supportive environment is ready for open conversation.
Step 1
Introduction (5 min)
5 minutes
- Begin with a brief explanation of gender inclusivity and why it matters.
- Ask students what they know about gender and inclusivity to gauge prior understanding.
- Set ground rules for respectful discussion.
Step 2
Discussion & Activity (20 min)
20 minutes
- Facilitate a discussion on diverse gender identities and the importance of respect.
- Engage students in a group activity where they share positive actions to support inclusivity.
- Use role-play scenarios to practice respectful communication and empathy.
Step 3
Conclusion (5 min)
5 minutes
- Summarize the key points discussed during the lesson.
- Encourage students to reflect on their role in creating an inclusive environment.
- Invite students to ask questions or share final thoughts.

Slide Deck
Gender Inclusivity: Embracing Everyone
Welcome to today's lesson on Gender Inclusivity. Let's learn how to embrace and respect all gender identities!
Welcome the students to the lesson. Introduce the topic quickly and engage them by asking if they've heard of the term 'gender inclusivity'. Highlight that today we are going to explore what it means to respect and embrace everyone regardless of gender identity.
What is Gender Inclusivity?
Gender inclusivity means recognizing, respecting, and supporting all gender identities. It’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and safe.
Explain the concept of gender inclusivity. Cover the definition and why it's important, making sure to use simple language suitable for 7th graders. Encourage questions as necessary.
Discussion & Activity
• Discuss what respect looks like for different gender identities.
• Share positive actions that support inclusivity.
• Practice respectful dialogue using role-play scenarios.
Facilitate the discussion. Read the prompt on the slide and encourage a group activity where students can discuss ideas about how to support inclusivity. Remind them to remain respectful.
Conclusion & Reflection
Today, we learned about gender inclusivity and how important it is to support one another. How can you create an inclusive environment in your daily life?
Summarize the lesson. Encourage students to reflect on the importance of inclusivity and ask if anyone has any questions or thoughts they'd like to share.

Activity
Inclusivity Role-Play Activity
This activity is designed to help you practice respectful communication and empathy through role-playing. You will work in small groups to act out scenarios that focus on understanding diverse gender identities and promoting gender inclusivity.
Activity Objectives
- Understand the importance of respecting diverse gender identities.
- Practice using inclusive and supportive language.
- Develop empathy and active listening skills through role-playing scenarios.
Instructions
-
Divide into Small Groups:
- Form groups of 3-4 students.
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Scenario Distribution:
- Each group will be given one of the scenarios listed below. Your teacher will assign the scenarios if not done randomly.
-
Preparation (5 minutes):
- Read your scenario carefully within your group.
- Discuss amongst yourselves how to approach the scenario using inclusive language and supportive actions.
- Decide on roles and what each person will say or do during the role-play.
-
Role-Play (10 minutes per group):
- Each group will perform their scenario in front of the class.
- Focus on respectful dialogue, empathy, and supportive behavior.
- Try to incorporate the concepts of gender inclusivity from the lesson.
-
Group Discussion (10 minutes):
- After each role-play, the teacher will lead a discussion using these questions:
- What actions made the scenario feel inclusive?
- How did respectful communication change the situation?
- In what ways could we apply this behavior in our everyday interactions?
- After each role-play, the teacher will lead a discussion using these questions:
Role-Play Scenario Prompts
Scenario 1: Misunderstanding Pronouns in Class
Situation:
A new student joins the class and introduces themselves using their preferred pronouns. A peer mistakenly uses incorrect pronouns.
Task:
- Role-play a conversation where the student gently corrects the peer and explains how using the right pronouns makes the new student feel acknowledged and respected.
Scenario 2: Navigating Name Changes
Situation:
A student decides to change their name to better reflect their gender identity. Some classmates are curious and ask questions in an insensitive manner.
Task:
- Role-play a scenario in which a peer respectfully asks about the new name and the reasons behind it, while ensuring the conversation remains supportive and sensitive.
Scenario 3: Supporting a Friend Facing Exclusion
Situation:
A student hears a few peers making jokes at the expense of someone who expresses a non-traditional gender identity. The student intervenes to support their friend.
Task:
- Role-play a situation where the supportive friend addresses the group respectfully, explains why the jokes are hurtful, and invites everyone to be more considerate and inclusive.
Scenario 4: Discussing Gender Inclusivity in Group Projects
Situation:
During a group project, a student's ideas are dismissed because of assumptions made about their gender. The student wishes to have their voice heard.
Task:
- Role-play the group discussion where the student respectfully addresses the issue, and the group works together to ensure everyone’s contributions are valued independent of gender assumptions.
Follow-Up Questions
- How did it feel to role-play a situation involving gender inclusivity?
- What were some challenges you faced when trying to stay inclusive?
- In what ways can you support others if similar situations arise?
Remember, the goal of this activity is to build skills that help our community become a welcoming and safe space for everyone. Enjoy the role-play and learn from each other!

