Question 1: Describe two common stereotypes associated with male characters in media. Provide examples of how these stereotypes might be portrayed verbally or through actions.

Answer: Common stereotypes include males being portrayed as strong, aggressive, or unemotional. Examples include a male hero who is physically powerful or a male character who avoids showing feelings or vulnerability.

Question 2: Identify and explain two ways female characters are often represented differently from male characters in media texts.

Answer: Female characters are often portrayed as nurturing or emotional, and sometimes are shown in roles related to caregiving or appearance-focused activities, whereas males are shown as dominant or action-oriented.

Question 3: Discuss how the portrayal of gender in media can influence societal perceptions of gender roles.

Answer: Media representations can reinforce stereotypes by consistently depicting men as leaders and women as caregivers, which can influence audiences' expectations and acceptance of traditional gender roles in real life.

Question 4: Imagine a media campaign aimed at promoting gender equality. Describe two ways the campaign could visually or verbally challenge traditional gender stereotypes.

Answer: The campaign could feature men and women engaging in non-traditional roles, such as a male nurse or a female engineer, with slogans emphasizing equality and breaking stereotypes, such as 'Gender is no barrier to success.'

Question 5: Draw a scene depicting a gender-neutral character in a media setting. Your sketch should include details that suggest the character is not associated with traditional gender stereotypes.

Answer: A balanced, non-stereotypical character with neutral clothing, a confident posture, and engaging in an activity that is not gender-specific, such as reading or working on a computer.

Question 6: Explain what is meant by 'representation' in media studies, particularly in relation to gender.

Answer: Representation refers to how different genders are portrayed in media texts, including the roles they play, their characteristics, and how these portrayals influence viewers' understanding of gender.

Question 7: Provide an example of a media text (film, TV show, advert, etc.) that challenges traditional gender roles. Briefly describe how it does so.

Answer: An example is the TV show 'Modern Family,' which depicts diverse family structures and roles, such as a male character who is a stay-at-home parent, challenging stereotypes of gendered domestic roles.

Question 8: Critically evaluate how media representations of gender can contribute to gender inequality. Include at least one positive and one negative aspect in your answer.

Answer: Negatively, stereotypical portrayals can reinforce harmful gender norms, limiting opportunities for individuals. Positively, diverse and realistic representations can promote understanding and equality by showcasing different gender identities and roles.