PSHE 2023-24

Inclusive language and disability

 Learning Objectives

At the end of this lesson, you'll be able

to:
○ define inclusive language
○ explain why inclusive language is
important
○ select and use more inclusive
language
Starter

What does inclusion mean to

you?
Why is inclusion important?
Should we always make the
effort to use inclusive
language?
What is inclusive language?
"Inclusive communication that respects and
includes all communities is free from sexist,
racist and other discriminatory language. It
does not inadvertently exclude groups and it
avoids stereotypes, loaded words and
patronizing descriptors. Inclusive language is
important because it considers the audience
and their needs. "
Inclusive language doesn't suppress free
speech. It's about accepting the world for the
diverse place it is.
("Inclusive Language", 2019).
 Why is inclusive language use important?

Inclusive language is important for cultivating inclusion and belonging

in our educational community.
At its core, inclusive language is a show of compassion and respect
for our fellow community members.
By staying open to learning and adapting more inclusive language, as
individuals and together, we are cultivating a positive, trusting, school
community that can thrive.
What about people with a
disability? What inclusive
language should I use?
 Inclusivity: persons with disabilities
The language that we use to refer to persons with disabilities has an impact, as it shapes
our perception of the world. Language evolves over time, and terms that were commonly
used some years ago are no longer acceptable.
Inappropriate language can make people feel excluded or offend them and can be a
barrier to full and meaningful participation. The use of derogatory or inappropriate
language may amount to discrimination and impinge on the enjoyment of human rights.
Using terms such as “you’re autistic” or “you’re disabled”, even as a joke, is deeply
offensive.
Using language which put the person before the disability, such as “person with autism”
rather than “autistic person”, is an inclusive language choice to make.
By adopting language that celebrates diversity, we will contribute to strengthening the
human rights model of disability and to creating a more inclusive school community.
 Ableism and Rosie Jones: “Am I A R*tard?”
Ableism is a misguided and biased
understanding of disability that leads to the
assumption that the lives of persons with
disabilities are not worth living. Ableism
can take many forms, including harmful
language.
Rosie Jones is an English comedian who
sufferers from atraxic cerebral palsy. In this
short documentary, she addresses the
harmful comments and criticism she has
faced as a public figure, including trolling
on social media.
 Discussion

After watching the Rosie Jones documentary, how do you feel

about the comments she received concerning her disability?
How did she feel about having received these kind of
comments?
How important do you think the use of inclusive language is for
someone like Rosie?
 Reflection Time
On your PSHE Google classroom, you will find 1. Why is inclusive language
this week’s reflection questions. important?
Complete the document by recording your 2. Do you always make the effort to
thoughts and feelings about what you have use inclusive language?
learned during this week’s PSHE lesson. 3. What could CGB do to be a more
When you have finished your reflection, submit
inclusive educational
your document. community?
4. What could you do to be a more
You should aim to write around 250 words.
inclusive language user?