Timeline for Women in Science

Most Levels

Narrative
This is a ‘safe’ way to develop knowledge about women in science and to fill in gaps of history and textbooks. It involves students in directing their own scope of study and working together to assemble a project that all can contribute to.

	Objectives Create a forum for studying the contributions to STEM of women throughout history. Develop personal and educational empowerment skills for young women. Develop sensitivities for students of both genders to career options decision-making for girls and women Increase awareness of possible careers and career paths in the STEM professions. Develop STEM career understanding and options from the vantage points of several young women followed in the film. Materials Needed The Gender Chip (film) List of Women Scientists Paper, pencils, ruler or yardstick, for constructing timelines

Guided Experience
Students are asked to choose one of the persons from a list of women scientists and research their lives. They are each women noted in science, math, engineering or technology. Students are asked to construct a timeline for the person they have chosen. The timeline depicts important social and career events in their lives. They are then asked to present their timeline to a group/class. During the presentation they should answer these items:

1. What did ____ do to prepare for her career when she was young?
2. Describe how she was able to be successful in this career.
3. What are some recent examples of discoveries or inventions made by others in the same field?

After the presentations the teacher will display the timelines of the students around the classroom. Class views the documentary: The Gender Chip. Post Viewing Questions might include:

1. Which young woman seemed to have the hardest choices to make and why do you think so?
2. How did the young women in the film react to different conditions over time?
3. Choose one of the women/students. If you had been in her shoes would you have made the same choices: why/why not?