IELTS Gender and Career Choice

Vocabulary

  1. Sexism
  • BrE: /ˈsek.sɪ.zəm/ 
  • AmE: /ˈsek.sɪ.zəm/

Definition: Unfair treatment based on a person’s sex, usually against women.

Easy Explanation: Treating someone badly just because they are a man or a woman.

Example: “Sexism in the workplace can stop women from getting promoted.”

2. Parentification

  • BrE: /pəˌren.tɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/ 
  • AmE: /pəˌren.t̬ɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/

Definition: When a child takes on the responsibilities of a parent, often emotionally or practically.

Easy Explanation: A child acting like a parent because adults don’t do their job.

Example: “Parentification can cause stress for children, especially girls, who may feel pressured to care for siblings or parents.”

3. Caregiver

  • BrE: /ˈkeəˌɡɪvə/ 
  • AmE: /ˈkerˌɡɪvər/

Definition: A person who takes care of someone else, especially a child or sick person.

Easy Explanation: Someone who looks after others.

Example: “In many families, girls often become the main caregiver.”

4. Burden

  • BrE: /ˈbɜː.dən/ 
  • AmE: /ˈbɝː.dən/

Definition: A heavy load, either physically or emotionally.

Easy Explanation: Something difficult or stressful to deal with.

Example: “Parentification can place a heavy burden on a child.”

IELTS Speaking Challenge

Warm-up Questions

  • What jobs are popular for men and women in your country?
  • Do you think men and women face sexism in the workplace?
  • How does parentification affect young caregivers in families?
  • Do you think people should choose jobs based on their gender or skills?

Band 6 Style Answer
“Men usually do hard jobs like construction, and women do caring jobs like teaching or looking after family. But I think anyone can do any job now.”
Problems: Repetition, vague ideas, no examples or deeper explanation.

Try This Frame
“Although some jobs have traditionally been male- or female-dominated, sexism and social expectations often create these patterns. I believe skills and interests should decide careers, not gender roles or family burdens.”

Useful Phrases:

  • “Sexism often limits opportunities for women in certain fields.”
  • “Parentification can force young caregivers to take on adult roles early.”
  • “It’s important to reduce the burden on caregivers so they can focus on their own goals.”
  • “Breaking gender stereotypes empowers people to pursue any career.”

IELTS Writing Challenge

Task 2 Prompt
Some people believe men and women are naturally suited to different careers. Others believe that both should be able to pursue any job. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 6 Sample
“Some people say men are better at physical jobs and women are better at caring jobs like nursing. But I think men and women are equal and can do any job they want.”
Problems: Overgeneralization, unclear opinion, lacks depth.

Structure Plan

  • Paragraph 1 – Introduction
    Present both views and give your opinion clearly.
  • Paragraph 2 – View 1
    Explain belief in natural differences or traditional roles, mentioning sexism or parentification as social factors.
  • Paragraph 3 – View 2 (Your View)
    Argue skills and merit matter more. Show how reducing caregiver burdens and empowering people improves workplace equality.
  • Paragraph 4 – Conclusion
    Restate your clear opinion.

Key Vocabulary

  • Sexism
  • Parentification
  • Caregiver
  • Burden
  • Gender roles
  • Equal opportunity
  • Workplace equality

Grammar Focus: Concession Structures

Examples:

  • “Although sexism still exists in many industries, progress is being made.”
  • “While parentification affects many young caregivers, education and support can help.”
  • “Even though caregiving is often seen as women’s work, men also play important roles.”

Rewrite Challenge

Prompt: Some people think only men should work in dangerous jobs. What do you think?
Write a short paragraph using these four words: bias, merit, empower, stereotype.

Sample Answer:
“The stereotype that only men can do dangerous jobs shows clear bias. However, if hiring is based on merit, not gender, we can empower all individuals to work safely and successfully in any role.”

Final Reflection

5 Review Questions:

  1. What is one example of sexism you learned today?
  2. How does parentification affect young people in families?
  3. Which concession grammar structure did you use?
  4. What new vocabulary word did you find most useful?
  5. How would you explain why gender should not limit job choices in your native language?

Challenging sexism and stereotypes takes courage. Using clear and kind language helps empower others — keep practicing, you’re making a difference!