Lesson 2: Racism and the Box
Handout 4

Reflecting on Racism and the Box

Definitions:

Discrimination: Treatment or consideration based on class or category rather than individual merit
Prejudice: A negative opinion formed beforehand or without knowledge, or examination of the facts.
Racism: Discrimination or prejudice based on race.

 

Directions: Write a paragraph explaining how “being in the box” applies to racism. Use the definitions above and the questions below to guide your response.
  • If two races are “in the box” towards one another, how does each race’s view of reality become distorted?
  • Which “boxes” or racial prejudices do people often carry around with them?
  • What kind of mistreatment results from races being “in the box” towards one another?
  • What are the advantages of being “out of the box” towards people of other races?
     

Grading Rubric

Possible Score: 30 pts.

Format: One paragraph typed
Double-spaced, 12 pt. Font
Correct spelling and proper use of mechanics
 		 /5
/5
/5
Content: Depth of thought
Understanding of concepts (racism, the box)
Representation of both sides, both “boxes”		 /5
/5
/5