This lesson is the first of three that are designed to teach advanced students English through content-based instruction, while also taking the opportunity to focus on important global issues. Introducing students to the concept of gender identity is daunting, as it is a large concept that is just one part of the LGBTQ+, a community that has spanned the entirety of human history and has roots in every part of the world.  In this lesson, students will begin with the broad concept of LGBTQ+, including terminology, some etymology, pop culture, and first-hand accounts. This provides a base for not only the main activity of this lesson but also for the entire unit. While gender identity is the main focus of the unit, pronunciation is also the main focus of this particular lesson. Students will receive a vocabulary list which, through the hot-button activity, they will concentrate on pronouncing confidently. To focus on both learning content and on understanding (not just memorizing) the terminology, students will complete the main activity focused on transgender history, which is intended to flow into Lesson 2. 

Students are now very familiar with the concept of gender identity and vocabulary related to gender identity as well as thinking about gender issues. They should also be familiar with some of the different ways gender identity is understood in different parts of the world. Drawing on this knowledge, students will take on a project in which they research and present on a transgender icon by creating their own video.