Lesson: Exploring the Genius of Black Women in Video Gaming

Objective

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to learn about the contributions and challenges of Black women in the video game industry. Students will explore the intersection of race and gender in the gaming industry and analyze the impact of representation in video games.

“I can” statements

I can explain the historical and current contributions of Black women in the video game industry.
I can evaluate the challenges faced by Black women in the video game industry and propose ways to address them.
I can identify and analyze the impact of representation and diversity in the gaming industry.

Grade Level: 7-12

Common Core Standards

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RH.11-12.7:

Integrate and evaluate multiple sources of information presented in diverse formats and media (e.g., visually, quantitatively, as well as in words) in order to address a question or solve a problem.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.SL.11-12.1:

Initiate and participate effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher-led) with diverse partners on grades 11-12 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly and persuasively.

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.11-12.6:

Use technology, including the Internet, to produce, publish, and update individual or shared writing products in response to ongoing feedback, including new arguments or information.

DEIA Standards

Diversity

This lesson plan emphasizes the contributions and challenges of Black women in the video game industry. It also highlights the importance of diverse representation in media. Therefore, the following standards would apply:

Students will recognize the value of different perspectives and experiences in the gaming industry.
Students will be able to identify and appreciate the contributions of Black women to the gaming industry.
Students will understand the importance of diversity in media representation and its impact on society.

Equity

This lesson plan addresses the barriers that Black women face in the gaming industry and encourages students to brainstorm ways to address them. Therefore, the following standards would apply:
Students will recognize the impact of inequitable practices and policies in the gaming industry.
Students will analyze and propose solutions to address disparities in representation and opportunities for Black women in the gaming industry.

Inclusion

This lesson plan encourages students to create a video game character or concept that is designed to challenge stereotypes and represent the diversity of Black women. Therefore, the following standards would apply:
Students will appreciate and value the differences in others and recognize the importance of inclusion.
Students will create a character or concept that is inclusive of diverse perspectives and experiences.

Accessibility

This lesson plan utilizes a variety of resources, such as articles, videos, and websites, to provide students with a well-rounded understanding of Black women in the gaming industry. Therefore, the following standards would apply:
Students will be provided with resources that are accessible and inclusive of different learning styles.
Students will have the opportunity to engage with materials that are diverse and representative of different perspectives and experiences.

Materials

Computers with internet access
Access to articles, videos, and resources on Black women in video game development
Pen and paper for note-taking

Lesson Hook

“Have you ever played a video game where the main character didn’t look like you or represent your experiences? For many Black women, this is a common experience in the gaming industry. However, did you know that there are Black women who are making a difference in the gaming industry? In this lesson, we will explore the historical and current contributions of Black women in the gaming industry, and propose ways to address the challenges they face. We will also create our own video game character or concept that challenges stereotypes and promotes the diversity of Black women in the gaming industry. Are you ready to make a difference?”

This lesson hook aims to grab students’ attention by highlighting a common experience and presenting the lesson’s topic as a way to make a difference. It also encourages students to think about the importance of representation and diversity in the gaming industry.

Procedure

Introduction (15 minutes)

Begin the lesson by asking students if they play video games and what their favorite video game is.
Explain that the gaming industry is a multi-billion dollar industry that is constantly growing and evolving.
Introduce the topic of Black women in video game development and explain that they have made significant contributions to the industry, but are often overlooked and face unique challenges based on racism and sexism.

Research and Analysis (60 minutes)

Have students conduct independent research on Black women in video game development. Provide them with a list of resources such as articles, videos, and websites.
Instruct students to take notes on the contributions, challenges, and experiences of Black women in the gaming industry.
Have students analyze the intersection of race and gender in the gaming industry.
Ask them to identify patterns and common themes in their research.

Class Discussion (30 minutes)

Have students share their findings and insights with the class. Ask students to reflect on the impact of representation in video games.
Discuss the importance of diverse representation in media and the impact it can have on individuals and society as a whole.
Discuss the barriers that Black women face in the gaming industry and brainstorm ways to address them.

Creative Project (45 minutes)

Instruct students to create a video game character or concept that is inspired by a Black woman.
The character or concept should be designed to challenge stereotypes and represent the diversity of Black women.
Have students present their concepts to the class and explain how their character or concept challenges stereotypes and promotes diversity in the gaming industry.

Conclusion (10 minutes)

Wrap up the lesson by asking students to reflect on what they learned and how they can apply it to their own lives and interactions with media.
Provide students with additional resources and encourage them to continue learning about the contributions and experiences of Black women in the gaming industry.