Embedded Files
Discussion
Discussion
Over the next two weeks we're looking at the topic of gender: the extent to which it carries innate tendencies and characteristics, and how much is determined by our own cultures. This is a highly controversial topic because while advances in biology and psychology allow us to learn ever-more about human nature and the role of genes, there's an increasing social movement for equality between the genders and for the debunking of stereotypical gender roles.
- How many gender stereotypes can you think of (e.g., women like shopping/men like football) and why do you think these stereotypes exist?
- Do you have any young brothers, sisters, nieces or nephews?
- If so, how does behaviour differ between boys and girls?
- Would you buy them different toys or play specific games with them (e.g. dolls/playing dressing-up for girls but cars and football for boys).
Listening and note-taking
Listening and note-taking
We're going to watch a documentary that explores these differences in young children. While you listen, note down any references made to research, and what it tells us about gender and behaviour. What innate differences are discussed?
After listening
After listening
- Having watched the documentary, were you surprised by any of the differences in behaviour between boys and girls?
- To what extent are gender stereotypes accurate?
Click here to watch full-screen version with subtitle options.
Language analysis
Language analysis
Below are some of the phrasal verbs, idioms and metaphors that we heard in the first half of the documentary, along with the time they appeared. Listen to them again in context and decide on the meaning.
- The boys get to rule the roost. (2:05)
- The girls take centre stage. (2:40)
- What preconceptions do they have about being a boy or girl? (6:38)
- What’s the girls' take on the opposite sex? (9:30)
- The boys didn’t mince their words. (14:23)
- I don’t want to get told off. (16:38)
- They can’t resist telling on Harry. (18:05)
Summary writing
Summary writing
Work in pairs and note down all the details you can remember about the part of the documentary in which the boys and girls took part in a penalty shootout. What happened? What were the researchers trying to find out? Did the results confirm existing theories? Once you've noted down everything you can remember, write a short paragraph to upload to Google Classrooms and share with your peers. You can use the space below to draft your answer.
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