Question 1: Describe three common ways females are traditionally portrayed in media content. Provide specific examples for each.

Answer: Typical portrayals include being depicted as caretakers or homemakers, appearing as romantic interests or objects of desire, and shown as emotional or nurturing. For example, a female character might be shown cooking at home, dressed in fashionable clothing as a love interest, or crying in a dramatic scene.

Question 2: Explain how media representations of masculinity can influence boys' behaviour and perceptions of themselves.

Answer: Media often portrays masculinity as being strong, dominant, and emotionally reserved. This can lead boys to believe they must act tough, suppress emotions, and compete to prove their masculinity, which may affect their self-esteem and behaviour.

Question 3: Identify and describe two stereotypes about men and women that are often reinforced in advertising.

Answer: One stereotype is that women are primarily interested in beauty, shopping, and homemaking, while men are shown as interested in cars, sports, and power. Another stereotype is that women are emotional and nurturing, whereas men are assertive and aggressive.

Question 4: Think of a popular TV show or film. Describe how the main female character is portrayed in terms of gender roles.

Answer: The main female character is portrayed as caring and nurturing, often taking on a supportive role to male characters, and is shown dressing fashionably. She may also be depicted as emotionally expressive and focused on family or relationships.

Question 5: Draw a simple scene depicting a gender stereotype in media. Label the scene with a brief explanation of what it shows.

Answer: A scene might show a male character lifting weights or working on a car, labeled as 'masculine roles,' and a female character cooking or holding a baby, labeled as 'feminine roles.'

Question 6: Explain why it is important to challenge gender stereotypes in media. Provide two reasons.

Answer: Challenging stereotypes promotes equality and allows individuals to express themselves freely without conforming to traditional roles. It also helps reduce discrimination and enables diverse representations of gender.

Question 7: Identify a media text (e.g., advertisement, TV show, film) that challenges traditional gender roles. Briefly describe how it does so.

Answer: A recent advertisement shows men and women sharing household chores equally, breaking the stereotype that only women do domestic work. The characters are portrayed as capable and independent regardless of gender.

Question 8: Sketch a magazine cover that features a gender-neutral portrayal of a person. Focus on clothing, posture, and expression. Label your sketch to explain your choices.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a person in casual, non-stereotypical clothing (not overly feminine or masculine), with a confident but neutral posture, and an expression that is approachable and neutral, emphasizing equality and diversity.

Question 9: Discuss how media representations of gender can influence young people's perceptions of themselves and others.

Answer: Media shapes perceptions by reinforcing stereotypes or providing diverse role models. Positive representations can boost confidence and challenge stereotypes, while limited portrayals can create unrealistic expectations and biases.

Question 10: Identify one way media could more fairly represent people of all genders. Explain your suggestion briefly.

Answer: Media could include more stories where characters of all genders are shown in a variety of roles, such as men caring for children or women in leadership positions, to promote equality and challenge stereotypes.