Breaking Barriers: Female NFL Pioneers

Michele·

Sports

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At a Glance

SubjectSports

Original Prompt

Create a 6-grade informational reading for the first female referee, Sara Thomas, and the first female NFL coach, Katie Sowers, and make some of the questions multiple choice, create a cause and effect chart, and a writing prompt

This learning resource focuses on two groundbreaking figures in the NFL—Sarah Thomas and Katie Sowers—who have significantly contributed to the advancement of women's roles in professional football. Students will explore how Thomas became the first permanent female official in the NFL and the first woman to officiate a Super Bowl, while Sowers made history as the first openly gay coach and the first female coach to lead a team to a Super Bowl. The resource encourages students to analyze informational text, understand the barriers these women overcame, and evaluate the impact of their achievements on sports equality. It includes key vocabulary, comprehension checks, and prompts for deeper reflection and personal connection regarding barriers in pursuing one's goals.