Focus Vocabulary
1. stereotype
- BrE: /ˈster.i.ə.taɪp/
- AmE: /ˈster.i.ə.taɪp/
Definition: A widely held but oversimplified idea about a group of people.
Easy Explanation: A simple idea that many people believe about a group, but it is often not true or too general.
Example: “Gender stereotypes in media can unconsciously shape expectations about leadership, behaviour, and ability.”
2. assumption
- BrE: /əˈsʌmp.ʃən/
- AmE: /əˈsʌmp.ʃən/
Definition: A belief made without evidence.
Easy Explanation: When someone believes something is true but does not have proof.
Example: “The assumption that women are less ambitious is outdated.”
3. deeply embedded
- BrE: /ˈdiːp.li ɪmˈbed.ɪd/
- AmE: /ˈdiːp.li ɪmˈbed.ɪd/
Definition: Ideas or beliefs that are firmly fixed in society.
Easy Explanation: Strong ideas that many people have believed for a long time.
Example: “Gender expectations are deeply embedded in many education systems.”
4. media-driven
- BrE: /ˈmiː.di.ə ˈdrɪv.ən/
- AmE: /ˈmiː.di.ə ˈdrɪv.ən/
Definition: Ideas shaped strongly by the influence of media.
Easy Explanation: Beliefs or messages that come from TV, internet, and news and affect what people think.
Example: “Many gender stereotypes are media-driven and shaped from childhood.”
5. subconscious bias
- BrE: /ˌsʌbˈkɒn.ʃəs ˈbaɪ.əs/
- AmE: /ˌsʌbˈkɑːn.ʃəs ˈbaɪ.əs/
Definition: Hidden preferences or prejudices people have without realizing it.
Easy Explanation: When people have feelings or ideas that affect their decisions without knowing it.
Example: “Hiring processes often reflect subconscious bias, even when policies appear neutral.”
IELTS Speaking Challenge
Sample Question: Do men and women think differently?
Simple answer: “Yes. Men use logic. Women use feelings.”
Improved answer: “That’s a common stereotype, but in reality, thinking styles vary more by individual than gender. Media often exaggerates these differences, which can reinforce subconscious bias.”
Try this frame:
“While it’s often said that ______, this view is based on ______ rather than evidence.”
IELTS Writing Challenge
Prompt：Some believe gender roles are based on natural ability. Others think they are shaped by society. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Basic answer:
“Men are better at science and women are better at feelings.”
Improved answer:
“Although some attribute gender differences to biology, many of these beliefs are media-driven stereotypes. Social norms often create deeply embedded expectations that influence both behaviour and opportunity.”
Practice frame:
“Although ______ may seem natural, it is often shaped by ______ and sustained by ______.”
Grammar Focus: Modal Verbs (should / must / can)
Modal verbs help you give opinions and advice clearly.
Examples:
- “People should question stereotypes rather than accept them.”
- “Society must support equality in education and work.”
- “Gender roles can change over time.”
Practice rewrite:
“Some people believe men are better leaders.” → “People should understand leadership is about skills, not gender.”
Rewrite Challenge
Question:
Should schools teach about gender roles and equality?
Your task: Write a 4-sentence paragraph using the words:
- stereotype
- assumption
- media-driven
- subconscious bias
Example:
“Stereotypes about gender come from media-driven messages. Many people have wrong assumptions because of this. Schools should teach about equality to reduce subconscious bias. This will help build a fairer society.”
Final Reflection
You have:
✔️ Learned important words like stereotype, assumption, media-driven, and subconscious bias
✔️ Practiced speaking clearly about gender with frames
✔️ Improved your writing by challenging simple ideas and using academic phrases
✔️ Used modal verbs to express advice and opinions
✔️ Practiced rewriting simple sentences into more thoughtful ones
Now ask yourself:
- What is one new idea you learned about gender roles today?
- How will you use this language to improve your IELTS speaking or writing?
- Which vocabulary word will you remember most?
Remember:
By learning about gender, you’re helping create a fairer world and becoming a stronger, more thoughtful IELTS speaker every day.
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