• 3.3: Race and Ethnicity

    • OpenStax College: Introduction to Sociology: "Chapter 11: Race and Ethnicity" URL

      Read this chapter for a review of race and ethnicity.

      As you read through each section, consider the following points:

      • Can you identify areas in your life where race and ethnicity have an effect?
      • Take note of the differences between race and ethnicity. Explore the idea behind race being a social construction, rather than a biological identifier. Take note of the definitions of majority and minority groups.
      • Take note of the differences between stereotypes, prejudice, discrimination, and racism. Challenge yourself to think about some common stereotypes you might be familiar with.
      • Read about how the major theoretical perspectives view race and ethnicity. On a separate piece of paper, make a list of examples of culture of prejudice. For example, when you see an actor of (presumably) Middle Eastern descent in a film, how often are they either the hero or the villain? When you're watching television and commercials come on, what are some common themes you notice in the racial categories of the actors? How about images in high fashion magazines? Often times, when women of color appear in these ads, they are eroticized in some way, creating a visual of someone who is less than human.
      • Take note of the definitions of genocide, expulsion, segregation, pluralism, and assimilation. Also, pay attention to amalgamation and how it is somewhat similar to the classic melting pot theory.
      • Focus on the different experiences of various ethnic groups in the United States. Due to the current racial stratification in the U.S., how might race or ethnicity affect access to valuable resources like education or health care?

    • OpenStax College: Introduction to Sociology: "Quiz: Race and Ethnicity"

      Use this quiz to help you check your understanding of subunit 3.3. Once your score has been calculated, review your class notes and resource materials to better understand any questions you answered incorrectly.

      Notes:

      • There is no minimum required score to pass this assessment, and your score on this assessment will not factor into your overall course grade.
      • This assessment is designed to prepare you for the Final Exam that will determine your course grade. Upon submission of your assessment you will be provided with the correct answers and/or other feedback meant to help in your understanding of the topics being assessed.
      • You may attempt this assessment as many times as needed, whenever you would like.