This article articulates the frustration of female executives struggling to break through the glass ceiling in Canada.

Appropriate Subject Area(s)

Careers, leadership

Key Questions to Explore:

• Why is it so challenging for women to join the ranks of senior executives in Canada?

Materials Needed:

Access to the article for students

Introduction to lesson and task:

Students will explore the challenges and frustrations that stand in the way of female upward mobility.

Action (lesson plan and task):

• Have a class discussion on equity and equality. Distinguish the difference.
• Distribute the article for reading.
• Using Think-Pair-Share, ask students to think about what is contributing to the challenges outlined in the article. Ask them what challenges female executives face with those above them and with those below.
• Ask students to draw out the challenges on paper and then brainstorm strategies and opportunities for change within each level and across all levels.
• Using a walkabout, have students view each others’ drawings/charts to see what others have identified.

Consolidation of Learning:

• After the walkabout, have each student write a reflection on the actions that can be taken to overcome one of the challenges identified.

Success Criteria:

• Students have ideas on how to identify an opportunity.

Confirming Activity:

• Have students share their reflections and, in small groups, create a strategy that will help to address the inequity for female leaders.