Navigating Intersectional Identities

This case study offers a valuable opportunity for teacher educators, school teachers, and mentors, to engage with the concept of intersectionality in classroom settings. It follows Harper, a teacher in a diverse school, who seeks to introduce discussions about race, gender, and sexuality as cross-curricular themes. Through a student-led comment about not seeing herself represented—as a Muslim girl—the case highlights the importance of exploring how multiple aspects of identity intersect and shape student experiences. This case study can be used in professional development or teacher education courses to encourage critical thinking about identity, representation, and inclusion. It provides a springboard for discussing how teachers can address complex social realities through curriculum adaptations, even in traditionally non-social subjects like PE. Educators can use this scenario to reflect on their own practice, design inclusive activities, and discuss ways to create classroom environments where all students feel seen and valued. It is suggested to print and laminate the visual prompts (A5 would be the suggested size).

Resource creators: Consortium of colleagues from the Justice Ed project

Contact email: elaine.murtagh@ul.ie

Access to the resource: Here

Audio description