"Sociology"

 

Level 1

Visuals

1.     List the objects or people you see in the cartoon.

• Mom

• Employer sign

• Daughter

• Shadowy figure

• Intimidation by daughter

• Good careers sign

Words (not all cartoons include words)

1.     Identify the cartoon caption and/or title

The caption is the “An equal opportunity employer”.

2.     Locate three words or phrases used by the cartoonist to identify objects or people within the cartoon.

Three words or phrases include employer, good careers, and equal opportunity.

3.     Record any important dates or numbers that appear in the cartoon.

There are no dates or numbers.

 

Level 2

Visuals

2.     Which of the objects on your list are symbols?

The shadowy, masculine figure is a symbol.

3.     What do you think each symbol means?

I think this symbol represents inequality and the discrimination against women in said “good careers”.

Words

4.     Which words or phrases in the cartoon appear to be the most significant? Why do you think so?

The phrase “An equal opportunity employer” is important because paired with the shadowy figure shows just how unequal they really are.

5.     List adjectives that describe the emotions portrayed in the cartoon.

Frightened, intimidated, forced.

 

Level 3

A.     Describe the action taking place in the cartoon.

In the cartoon we see a mother kind of shoving her daughter into a path for good careers. The young girls is intimidated and frightened because she has to go through “An equal opportunity employer”.

B.     Explain how the words in the cartoon clarify the symbols.

The word equal is being used however it displays the employer as a dark, scary-looking, man. This shows that although the man is labeled equal, he can’t be trusted.

 

C.    Explain the message of the cartoon.

The cartoon is showing that women cannot get into the really good careers because of the “equal” opportunity employers. Although they are labeled equal they are usually men in suits who aren’t actually fair. That is why the girl in the girl is intimidated and discouraged to go down that path.

D.    What special interest groups would agree/disagree with the cartoon's message? Why?

Business people and corporations will probably disagree saying that the reason why there aren’t as many women is because they aren’t as experienced or qualified for the job. They may say that there are indeed in fact many women at their company. I feel as though many women will agree because of the income gap between males and females. Women aren’t allowed to pursue jobs that are considered “really good careers”.