ICC lesson: Stereotypes

What is a stereotype?

Stereotype Definition

“A standardized mental picture that is held in common by members of a

group and that represents an oversimplified opinion, prejudiced attitude, or uncritical judgment.”

(Merriam Webster Online Dictionary)

Generalization

Definition: A broad statement that

applies to a lot of situations or ideas.

Stereotype of Generalization?

• All Americans are rude.

• Chinese people tend to value the group more than the individual.

• Canadians are generally less openly patriotic than Americans.

• All Muslims are dangerous because they are terrorists.

Stereotype or Generalization?

• All Americans are rude.

• Chinese people tend to value the group more than the individual.

• Canadians are generally less openly patriotic than Americans.

• All Muslims are dangerous because they are terrorists.

First Impressions

For each of the following pictures, make as many guesses as possible about the person’s

occupation, character or anything else about the person.

Tupac Shakur: Rapper

Leila Ali: Boxer

Ted Bundy: Serial Killer

Susan Boyle: Pop Star

Pepsi TV Commercial

What stereotypes do people from around the world have about China and Chinese people?

Do you think the Pepsi TV commercial shows an inaccurate or stereotypical view of China?

Role Play Activity

• Students will get into groups of four and each group will be given a prompt

• Groups must create a 2-4 minute play based on their prompt

• Groups will get 10 minutes to prepare their play

• Everyone in the group must speak in the performance

• After each group performs, some students will be asked to identify which stereotypes they saw in the play and how they were proven false

Final Discussion Question

How can people be convinced not to hold stereotypical views of

others?

Homework Assignment

• Write a 100-150 word response to the question below. Bring a paper copy of your writing to class next week. Students will exchange essays and make comments and corrections on each other’s writing and ideas.

What will you do in your life to fight against stereotypes?