A stereotype is a set idea that people have about what someone or something is like. These ideas are often widely held, but are not based on any evidence and are largely untrue.
People are often stereotyped based on the way they are dressed. For example, people can be quick to assume that teenagers in hoodies are hooligans or people who like makeup and fake tan are not intelligent.
Can you identify any stereotypes associated with the following groups? Men Women
Smart people Sporty people
Are these stereotypes fair?
In literature people are often stereotyped. Sometimes the author is trying to prove a point. Can you think of any novels, plays or films you have studied where there was a stereotyped character? What effect did this have on you as a reader?
Teenagers People without a home
Discuss
1. What was your most memorable birthday? Why was it so memorable? 2. David is trying to be a ‘normal’ teenager. What does this mean? 3. Do you think it is difficult to be ‘normal’? 4. Have you ever been the victim of stereotyping? How did it make you feel?
Understand
1. Find a synonym for each of the following words in the extract from The Art of Being Normal:
