Understanding Banter: Exploring the Impact of Offensive Comments

• Catering
• Further Education (Key Stage 5)

Understanding Banter: Exploring the Impact of Offensive Comments

Learning Objective

At the end of the lesson, you will be able to understand the difference between banter and offensive comments, recognize the potential harm caused by offensive banter, and empathize with those who may feel uncomfortable or offended.

Introduce the learning objective to the students. Explain what they will be able to do by the end of the lesson.

What is Banter?

Banter refers to light-hearted and playful conversation or teasing between friends or acquaintances. It is often characterized by witty remarks, jokes, and teasing that is meant to be humorous and enjoyable for all parties involved.

Define banter and provide examples to help students understand its nature. Encourage class participation and discussion.

think about  how you may have been impacted 

What do you already know about banter and its potential impact on others?

Which of these quotes would you consider NOT to be banter?

1. Women are only good enough to be washing up?

2.Liverpool FC are THE best team in the world

3. You remind me of the woman in the wateraid advert when you carry that on your head

4. Man United are absolutely rubbish

5. Most women i know cant even park a car, how is a woman flying my plane

Answers 

1.  An actual quote from a learner 

2. Banter from Jason ( but it is true)

3. An actual quote from a learner 

4. Banter from Jason (again it is true) 

5. An actual quote from Andrew Tate 

How does this make YOU feel?? 

Perception vs. Reality

Sometimes, what may be perceived as banter among 18-year-olds can actually be racist, homophobic, or misogynistic. It is important to recognize that offensive comments disguised as banter can hurt and make others feel uncomfortable.

Discuss the difference between perception and reality when it comes to banter. Use examples and encourage students to share their experiences or observations.

Impact on Others

Offensive banter can have a profound impact on individuals. Comments that target someone's race, sexuality, or gender can make them feel marginalized, humiliated, and excluded. It is crucial to consider the potential harm caused by our words.

Explain the impact offensive banter can have on individuals. Encourage students to reflect on how they would feel if they were on the receiving end of such comments.

Recognizing Discomfort

It is important to be aware of signs that someone may be feeling uncomfortable or offended by banter. These signs can include body language changes, withdrawal, silence, or a change in their demeanor. Pay attention and be sensitive to others' reactions.

Discuss how to recognize signs of discomfort in others. Encourage students to share their thoughts and experiences on how people might react when feeling uncomfortable.

Empathy and Respect

To create a positive and inclusive environment, it is essential to prioritize empathy and respect. Treat others with kindness and be mindful of the impact our words can have. Foster a culture of understanding and acceptance.

Discuss the importance of empathy and respect in promoting a positive and inclusive environment. Encourage students to share their thoughts on how they can contribute to such a culture.

Making a Complaint

If someone feels uncomfortable or offended by banter, they have the right to make a complaint. It is important to take complaints seriously, apologize if necessary, and reflect on our own behavior to prevent similar incidents in the future.

Explain the importance of taking complaints seriously and the responsibility of individuals to reflect on their own behavior. Discuss steps that can be taken to address and prevent offensive banter.

what have you learnt from today's presentation

Write down 3 things you learned in this lesson.

Have students enter three things they learned in this lesson. With this they can indicate their own learning efficiency of this lesson.

Write down 2 things you want to know more about.

Here, students enter two things they would like to know more about. This not only increases involvement, but also gives them more ownership.

Ask 1 question about something you haven't quite understood yet.

The students indicate here (in question form) with which part of the material they still have difficulty. For the teacher, this not only provides insight into the extent to which the students understand/master the material, but also a good starting point for the next lesson.