TESL 530

2. What is a stereotype?

3. Stereotype Definition
“A standardized mental picture that is
held in common by members of a
group and that represents an
oversimplified opinion, prejudiced
attitude, or uncritical judgment.”
(Merriam Webster Online Dictionary)

4. Generalization
Definition:
A broad statement that
applies to a lot of
situations or ideas.

5. Stereotype of Generalization?
• All Americans are rude.
• Chinese people tend to value the
group more than the individual.
• Canadians are generally less openly
patriotic than Americans.
• All Muslims are dangerous because
they are terrorists.

6. Stereotype or Generalization?
• All Americans are rude.
• Chinese people tend to value the
group more than the individual.
• Canadians are generally less
openly patriotic than Americans.
• All Muslims are dangerous
because they are terrorists.

7. First Impressions
For each of the following
pictures, make as many guesses
as possible about the person’s
occupation, character or
anything else about the person.

12. Tupac Shakur: Rapper

13. Leila Ali: Boxer

14. Ted Bundy: Serial Killer

15. Susan Boyle: Pop Star

16. Pepsi TV Commercial

17. What stereotypes do people from
around the world have about
China and Chinese people?

18. Do you think the Pepsi TV
commercial shows an inaccurate
or stereotypical view of China?

19. Role Play Activity
• Students will get into groups of four and each
group will be given a prompt
• Groups must create a 2-4 minute play based
on their prompt
• Groups will get 10 minutes to prepare their play
• Everyone in the group must speak in the
performance
• After each group performs, some students will
be asked to identify which stereotypes they saw
in the play and how they were proven false

20. Final Discussion Question
How can people be convinced not
to hold stereotypical views of
others?

21. Homework Assignment
• Write a 100-150 word response to the question
below. Bring a paper copy of your writing to
class next week. Students will exchange
essays and make comments and corrections
on each other’s writing and ideas.
What will you do in your life to
fight against stereotypes?