1.
Which of these pronouns did English speakers use in the past as a generic singular pronoun, even though it was not a generic pronoun?
Correct Answer
C. He
Explanation
In the past, English speakers used "he" as a generic singular pronoun, even though it was not specifically a generic pronoun. This usage was based on the assumption that the default or generic person referred to was male. This practice has been criticized for its gender bias and exclusion of non-male individuals.
2.
Choose two reasons why gender neutral language is important in SAP from the list below.
Correct Answer(s)
A. SAP has made a formal commitment to making SAP one of the leading places where women want to come to build their careers.
C. When we constantly personify "the judge," or "the critic" as male by using the pronoun he, we are subtly conditioning ourselves against the idea of a female judge or critic.
Explanation
Gender neutral language is important in SAP for two reasons. Firstly, SAP has made a formal commitment to creating an inclusive environment where women feel welcome to build their careers. By using gender neutral language, SAP demonstrates its commitment to gender equality and creates a more inclusive workplace. Secondly, using gender neutral language helps to challenge and break down gender stereotypes. When we constantly use male pronouns to refer to positions of authority like judges or critics, we reinforce the idea that these roles are inherently male. Gender neutral language helps to challenge these stereotypes and promote gender equality.
3.
True or false: An easy way to avoid using he, him, and his is always to use she, her, and hers.
Correct Answer
B. False
Explanation
Using she, her, and hers instead of he, him, and his is not always an easy way to avoid gender bias. It can create a different form of bias by excluding or marginalizing male individuals. The best way to avoid gender bias is to use gender-neutral language or alternate between masculine and feminine pronouns.
4.
Choose two ways to make a sentence more gender-neutral.
Correct Answer(s)
B. Use both pronouns.
C. Use plural nouns and pronouns.
Explanation
Using both pronouns and using plural nouns and pronouns are two ways to make a sentence more gender-neutral. By using both pronouns, such as "he or she" or "they," it acknowledges and includes individuals of different genders. Similarly, using plural nouns and pronouns, such as "people" or "they," avoids assuming a specific gender and includes everyone. These strategies promote inclusivity and avoid gender bias in language.
5.
As a general rule, what is the best way to refer to Maria Smith by her title? Maria is not a doctor or a professor.
Correct Answer
B. Ms. Maria Smith
Explanation
The best way to refer to Maria Smith by her title is "Ms. Maria Smith." This is because "Ms." is a neutral title that does not indicate marital status. Since Maria is not a doctor or a professor, using "Ms." is the most appropriate and respectful way to refer to her. "Miss" is typically used for unmarried women, "Mrs." indicates a married woman, and "That woman over there" is too informal and disrespectful.
6.
"We must act immediately, or mankind is doomed!"
Choose two sentences that would be more gender-neutral for shouting at times of threatened extinction.
Correct Answer(s)
A. "We must act immediately, or humankind is doomed!"
D. "We must act immediately, or we are all doomed!"
Explanation
The correct answer is "We must act immediately, or humankind is doomed!" and "We must act immediately, or we are all doomed!" These sentences are more gender-neutral because they use the term "humankind" instead of "mankind" and include "we are all" instead of specifying a particular gender. This ensures that the message applies to all individuals, regardless of their gender.
7.
As long as it does not confuse the reader, you can alternate between using male and female pronouns in a block of text to keep it gender neutral.
Correct Answer
A. True
Explanation
Using both male and female pronouns in a block of text can be a way to keep it gender neutral. This approach ensures that the text is inclusive and does not favor one gender over the other. By alternating between male and female pronouns, the reader is less likely to feel excluded or marginalized based on their gender identity. This practice can contribute to creating a more inclusive and diverse environment in written communication.
8.
Choose the most gender-neutral word to complete this informal sentence:
Anyone attending the party must organize ________ own transport.
Correct Answer
D. Their
Explanation
The correct answer is "their" because it is a gender-neutral pronoun that can be used to refer to anyone, regardless of their gender. It avoids assuming the gender of the person attending the party and promotes inclusivity.