The Barbie doll was unveiled in 1959.

When Barbie was released in 1959, she immediately stepped into controversy. The idea of a doll with an adult woman's features was brand-new. The market, though, was eager for a doll with lots of clothes, including bridal gowns and swimsuits. But by the 1970s, people began wondering why she did not have a business suit or a doctor's scrubs, and in more recent years, whether the body image she presents is healthy to young girls' self-esteem. Sales continue to grow, and so does the debate.

While Barbie's collection of accessories has changed over the years, her figure has remained relatively unchanged-despite questions about its effect on the self-esteem of the children who play with the doll. Take this opportunity to explore body image and advertising:

• Have students bring in pictures from the magazines that they typically read. Students should bring pictures of both male and female subjects.
• Post these pictures around the room and have students walk around with a two-columned chart with headings Male and Female which they will use to record words and phrases that describe what they see in the pictures. Students should then share their lists with the class.
• Ask students to write about how gender is represented in the advertisements they see. Is this typical of how men or women appear in movies, on TV, etc.? Which celebrities most exemplify these characteristics?
• After sharing responses in a think-pair-share arrangement, have students explain whether these gender representations are accurate in real life. Ask students to consider the effect that these representations can have on people's self-esteem.
• Conclude by discussing why advertisers portray males and females in this way. What is the goal and purpose of advertising?

• Barbie Makes Her Debut
  

  This History Channel article provides information about the origin and evolution of this famous doll.

• Ruth Handler
  

  PBS offers information about the inventor of Barbie.

• What would a real life Barbie look like?
  

  BBC News shares Barbie's measurements and shows how a woman would look with Barbie's proportions.

• Buddhist Barbie
  

  Poets.org offers this poem by Denise Duhamel that compares Barbie to Buddha. Students will enjoy the sarcastic tone of this piece.