International Women’s Day provides a rich topic for ESL students to explore themes of gender equality, empowerment, and global solidarity. Below are discussion questions designed for various English proficiency levels, aiming to stimulate thoughtful conversation and deeper understanding of the issues surrounding this significant day.
Lesson recommendation: Gender Inequality
Table of Contents
A2 Level
- What is International Women’s Day?
- Why do we celebrate International Women’s Day?
- Can you name some famous women leaders?
- How do people celebrate this day in your country?
- What colors do people wear on International Women’s Day?
- Why is it important to have a day for women?
- What does “equality” mean to you?
- Can you think of a woman you admire? Why?
- How can boys and men support International Women’s Day?
- Do you know any stories of brave women?
- What kind of jobs do women do in your country?
- Can girls and boys go to school together in your country?
- How do you help the women in your family?
- What sports are popular for women in your country?
- What can you do to make every day special for women?
B1 Level
- Discuss the importance of gender equality in society.
- How has the role of women changed in your country over time?
- What challenges do women face in the workplace?
- Why is education important for women’s empowerment?
- How do media and entertainment portray women?
- What actions can be taken to promote women’s rights?
- How do cultural differences affect women’s rights?
- Can you think of any laws that protect women’s rights in your country?
- How do international organizations support women’s rights?
- Discuss a book or movie that celebrates women’s achievements.
B2 Level
- Analyze the impact of International Women’s Day on raising awareness about gender issues.
- Discuss the role of men in supporting gender equality.
- Evaluate the progress made towards women’s rights in the last decade.
- How do gender stereotypes affect both men and women?
- Discuss the significance of women’s representation in politics and leadership.
- How does education contribute to gender equality?
- What are the global challenges in achieving gender equality?
- How can social media influence the movement for women’s rights?
- Discuss the intersectionality of gender with race, class, and sexuality.
- Evaluate the role of feminist movements in shaping modern society.
C1 Level
- Critically assess the effectiveness of current strategies to combat gender inequality.
- Discuss the impact of economic policies on women’s economic empowerment.
- Analyze the role of cultural practices in perpetuating or challenging gender norms.
- Evaluate the global response to gender-based violence.
- Discuss the implications of gender quotas in corporate and political spheres.
- How do migration and displacement affect women and girls differently?
- Analyze the contribution of women in science and technology.
- Explore the concept of work-life balance from a gender perspective.
- Discuss the role of education in dismantling patriarchal structures.
- Evaluate the impact of grassroots movements on national and international women’s rights policies.
C2 Level
- Critique the discourse surrounding women’s empowerment initiatives.
- Analyze the role of international treaties and conventions in advancing women’s rights.
- Discuss the psychological impact of gender roles on individual identity and society.
- Evaluate the influence of globalization on women’s rights and gender equality.
- Explore the ethical considerations of reproductive rights and healthcare for women.
- Analyze the gender dynamics in conflict zones and the role of women in peacebuilding.
- Critically assess the concept of “leaning in” within the context of feminist theory.
- Discuss the challenges of achieving substantive equality versus formal equality.
- Evaluate the impact of climate change on women, particularly in developing countries.
- Analyze the future of gender studies and its impact on policy and societal norms.
