In this unit we will look at the relation between stereotypes,
the media and gender equality.

We are influenced by everything that we hear, see and read. We are influenced by
the media - television, films, videos, newspapers, magazines, and radio.
The media reaches millions of people and convinces us to buy products.

How many ads do you think we see by the time we are 18?
1,000 ads
100,000 ads
350,000 ads

Do you think the media pressures us to look in a certain way?
Yes
No
I don't know

Is there a difference between fantasy (what happens on television, in the movies, and in ads) and reality?
Yes
No
I'm not sure

Think about the role of the media (TV, magazines and movies)
in creating stereotypes of women. 
Work with a friend: how does the media portray women?

Media Quiz
Take the following quiz: How much do we use media?

Discuss with your friend and write 2 new things that surprised both of you.

Pictures of Women in Magazines and ads
In pairs/groups look at some pictures of women in a few magazines, look at this ad and at this suggested site archive of pictures.

How do the women in the ads look like ?
The following words will help you

Do you think that these pictures represent real life women?
Yes. This is how women look like.
No, not all women look like that. Everyone is different.
I'm not sure.
 
Cut/print 3 pictures that you would like to show your class and prepare an oral presentation.
Analyze the pictures using these questions.
 

In the following site you will read about women and the media.
Work with a friend and write 2 facts that you didn't know before.
  Click here to read 

Take Action
Join the campaign against harmful images of women in the media.
Write letters and sign a petition.

What can you do to change the situation?
What can we do to prevent the media from using stereotypical pictures of women?
Read here What Can I do?
Write what you have learned in a

**As a class, choose one advertisement that is especially stereotypical and protest against it.
Send a letter to the newspaper/television or any other body which is responsible for it. This sample letter might help you: