Contillo

Subtopics or Concepts
Interdisciplinarity

Definition
Engaging with a text in
multiple and intersecting ways

Intersectionality

The study of the overlapping

aspects of different social
systems and identities such as
gender, race, sexuality, etc.

Queering thoughts

Using sexuality as a lens to

look out of, to help analyze
and interpret things in another
way

Queer Theory

A mode of critical pedagogy

that looks past the normative
ideologies and practices, not
only in regards to sexuality,
but in a larger context that
includes but is not limited to
the family, politics,
nationality, imperialism, and
censorship
Queer theory is analytical and
useful for more inclusive
teaching practices in a
classroom setting, as opposed
to more civil rights oriented
like gay and lesbian theory.

Queer Theory vs. Gay and

Lesbian Theory

Queer language and rhetoric

Inclusive language that is used

in the LGBTQ+ community,
including non-standard
pronouns (such as the gender
neutral they/them) and the
idea of heteronormativity

Tutoring Implications
Keep this in mind to try to
consider how your biases
might affect students so youll
better able to actively combat
those biases if they have the
potential to be invalidating
and hurtful to any tutees
Always keep this concept in
the back of your minds and be
aware of it in all sessions, to
help see connections between
subjects and foster a more
accepting environment
Do this to help engage with
and invoke the different
identities of individuals we
work with, and better foster a
safe and knowledge-inspiring
atmosphere
Educate yourself on the
concepts and language of
queer theory to be better
equipped with the skills
necessary to queer our
sessions and create a more
welcoming and comfortable
environment for queer
students and staff
Remember this distinction to
help you not view queer
theory as only relating to the
social rights movement for the
LGBTQ+ community, but as a
broader concept that is
applicable to many different
situations
Be mindful of your words by
actively trying to use less
heteronormative language and
help ensure that you are
creating a safe and inclusive
atmosphere for non-straight
staff and students that come to
the center.

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Heteronormativity

The dominant cultural and

social belief that
heterosexuality is the norm.
This encompasses the idea
that there are two distinct
genders (male and female)
that all people naturally fall
into, and that they naturally
are romantically and sexually
attracted to the opposite
gender.

Keep this in mind to help you

actively challenge
heteronormativity and be sure
you recognize all students
different identities and ways
of thinking as legitimate, to
help staff and students who
come in to feel safer and more
welcome