Focus Vocabulary
- Equality
- BrE: /ɪˈkwɒl.ɪ.ti/
- AmE: /ɪˈkwɑː.lə.ti/
Definition: The state of being treated the same or having the same rights.
Easy Explanation: When everyone is given the same chances and fair treatment.
Example: “Gender equality means men and women have the same opportunities.”
2. Discrimination
- BrE: /dɪˌskrɪm.ɪˈneɪ.ʃən/
- AmE: /dɪˌskrɪm.əˈneɪ.ʃən/
Definition: Unfair treatment of people because of who they are.
Easy Explanation: When people are treated badly because of their gender, race, or other reasons.
Example: “Discrimination against women in the workplace is illegal.”
3. Role model
- BrE: /rəʊl ˈmɒd.əl/
- AmE: /roʊl ˈmɑː.dəl/
Definition: A person others look up to and want to be like.
Easy Explanation: Someone who shows good behavior and inspires others.
Example: “She is a strong role model for young girls.”
4. Empowerment
- BrE: /ɪmˈpaʊə.mənt/
- AmE: /ɪmˈpaʊɚ.mənt/
Definition: Giving someone the power or confidence to do something.
Easy Explanation: Helping people feel strong and able to make their own decisions.
Example: “Women’s empowerment helps build equal societies.”
IELTS Speaking Challenge
Warm-Up Questions:
- What are some common ideas about men and women in your country?
- Do you think these ideas are true or just stereotypes?
- How can people change unfair ideas about gender?
Band 6 Style Speaking Example:
“Many people think men and women must act in certain ways. This is not always true. People should be free to choose what they want. I think we need to change old ideas.”
Try This Frame:
“In my country, people often believe ______. But I think it is better if we ______ because ______.”
IELTS Writing Challenge
Task 2 Question:
Some people think men and women have natural roles. Others say these roles come from society. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Band 6 Writing Sample:
“Some people say men and women are different by nature. They think men are stronger and women are more caring. But many ideas come from society and media. I believe everyone should have equal chances and not be judged by gender.”
Structure Plan:
- Introduction: Explain the question and your opinion
- Paragraph 1: People think gender roles are natural
- Paragraph 2: Society creates many ideas about gender
- Conclusion: Gender equality is important for everyone
Use These Words:
stereotype | assumption | bias | equality
Grammar Focus: Contrast Sentences with Although / While
- Although + idea 1, + idea 2
- While many people think ______, the truth is ______.
- Even though ______ seems natural, it is often caused by ______.
Examples:
- “Although some people believe men and women are very different, this is often a stereotype.”
- “While many think women should stay at home, more women work outside now.”
- “Even though gender roles seem natural, society and media teach them.”
Rewrite Challenge: Gender and Education
Question: Should schools teach students about gender equality?
Your Task: Write a 4-sentence paragraph using:
stereotype | assumption | bias | equality
Example:
“Many students have stereotypes about men and women. These are assumptions without proof. Schools should teach about bias to help students think better. This will support equality for all.”
Final Reflection: What You Learned About Gender and IELTS
You’ve just…
✔️ Learned important words like stereotype, assumption, bias, equality
✔️ Practiced speaking clearly about gender roles and fairness
✔️ Written a simple essay showing both sides and your opinion
✔️ Used grammar to compare ideas and show contrast
✔️ Rewritten sentences to use better words and ideas
Now ask yourself:
- What is one new word about gender you learned?
- Why is it important to question stereotypes?
- How can you help others think fairly about men and women?
- What will you say if someone tells you a gender stereotype?
Remember, learning English is not just about words — it’s about sharing ideas with care and respect.
Talking about gender in IELTS helps you improve your English and speak with fairness—keep practicing, and you’ll make a real difference!
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