SOC 2601: Race and Ethnicity Spring 2016

SOC 2601: Race and Ethnicity Spring 2016

Race Reflection Two: Sorting People Directions Please read these directions before attempting to complete this assignment. This is the second assignment to be included in your reflection journal. It should be typed in a 12 point font, 1″ margins, double spaced and no more than 2 pages. Do not create a title page for this reflection.

Instead create a running header with the following: your name and the number of the reflection. Be sure to also include a page numbers.

Remember: Your grade on this reflection journal is based on whether you answer the questions and/or prompts accurately and completely, and whether (and how) you incorporate course materials (readings, lectures, and discussions) to show the depth of your reflection and the mastery of course content.

The Activity: This reflection activity is designed for you to explore the social construction of race by sorting people into various racial groups based on phenotype and/or appearance.

You will need to go to: http://www.pbs.org/race/002_SortingPeople/002_00-home.htm and click the Begin Sorting button.

Directions for Sorting When you begin sorting simply drag and drop the picture into a slot under the racial category you think that person belongs.

There are only 4 spots per racial category so be sure to choose carefully. After you finish sorting, click “next”, it will show you your guesses and the correct answers.

Record the number you got right, click “conclusion” and read the screen. After you have sorted the people, click “close” return to the original screen and click “explore traits” underneath “Begin Sorting”.

Examine both the skin color AND blood type screens taking notes on what you see and learn. Guidelines for Written Reflection 1. Compare your results on the Sorting People exercise with the definition of race provided by the textbook.

Does the definition of “race or racial group” given by our book make sense given your experience with the Sorting People exercise? You should use your ‘results’ (the amount you got right vs. wrong) as ‘evidence’ to answer this question.

2. What are your thoughts on race after completing this exercise? How does this exercise illustrate the socially constructed nature of race?

What is the definition of race that our society should use? Discuss the skin color and blood type information.