Understanding Modern Masculinity

Lesson Overview

Subject: PSHE
Year Group: Year 9
Lesson Duration: 60 minutes
Class Size: 10 students
Curriculum Area: Relationships, Health and Wellbeing (PSHE Association Programme of Study, KS3)
Key Theme: Masculinity – Expectations, Emotions, and Pressures

Lesson Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:

• Reflect on traditional and modern views of masculinity.
• Identify societal pressures tied to masculinity and their impact on emotions and behaviours.
• Discuss strategies to manage emotional challenges linked to masculinity-related expectations.
• Engage in open discussions about masculinity in a supportive environment.

Lesson Structure

Starter Activity (10 minutes) – What is Masculinity?

Objective: Activate prior knowledge, spark discussion.

• Display the word "Masculinity" on the board.
• Give students one minute to write down three words or phrases they associate with masculinity.
• Ask each student to share one word, and write a collective "Masculinity Word Cloud" on the board.
• Brief discussion: Which words are positive? Which could bring pressure?

Main Activity 1 (15 minutes) – The Pressures of Being a Man

Objective: Explore societal expectations surrounding masculinity.

1. Scenario Discussion: Present the following scenarios to small groups (pairs or trios):

   • A boy feels he must always appear strong, even when struggling with emotions.
   • A student is encouraged to get into a fight to "prove" themselves.
   • A boy wants to show kindness but fears being perceived as weak.

2. Group Reflection: Each group discusses:

   • Why does this pressure exist?
   • What impact could this pressure have?
   • How could someone challenge these expectations?

3. Class shares thoughts, with teacher guiding the discussion towards healthy masculinity.

Main Activity 2 (15 minutes) – Podcast Preparation & Discussion

Objective: Build confidence in discussing masculinity openly.

• Explain that as part of an ongoing podcast project, students will contribute their thoughts on masculinity.
• Ask: "If you were a guest on a podcast about masculinity, what is one stereotype you’d like to challenge?"
• Allow students a minute to reflect and write down answers.
• Conduct a mini-podcast-style discussion, where each student shares their point while others ask follow-up questions or expand on the idea.
• Encourage students to think critically and share personal insights in a respectful and non-judgmental space.

Plenary (10 minutes) – Redefining Masculinity

Objective: Solidify key takeaways and promote personal reflection.

• Students complete the sentence: "A healthy view of masculinity means…" on individual sticky notes or notecards.
• Read a selection of responses aloud (anonymously, if preferred).
• As a class, discuss: Do we see masculinity differently now compared to the beginning of the lesson?
• Encourage students to think about how they will apply today’s discussion in their daily lives.

Assessment for Learning

• Verbal contributions during discussions.
• Responses in written activities (word cloud, scenario reflections, exit responses).
• Engagement in the podcast discussion.

Differentiation & Support

• Shyer students: Offer the option to write down thoughts instead of speaking in the podcast discussion.
• More confident speakers: Encourage them to facilitate discussion among peers.
• Visual learners: Use images or short videos to supplement discussions on masculinity and stereotypes.
• Students needing structure: Provide sentence starters for discussion points.

Resources Required

• Whiteboard & markers
• Sticky notes or notecards
• Printed scenarios for group work
• Audio recording device (optional, to support podcast work)

Teacher Reflection After Lesson

• Were students engaged in the podcast-style discussion?
• Did students challenge old stereotypes and propose healthier perspectives?
• How comfortable were students in discussing emotions openly?
• What could be improved for the next session on masculinity?

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Teacher's Next Steps

• Use responses from today's activities to shape the next podcast discussion.
• Consider bringing in guest speakers (older students or external speakers) to broaden perspectives.
• Follow up by allowing students to create a short "advice video" for younger boys about healthy masculinity.

This lesson plan goes beyond standard discussions by incorporating student-led debate, peer interaction, and real-world application through the podcast integration. It promotes critical thinking, emotional intelligence, and resilience, all key elements of PSHE education in the UK.