Spanish English Dictionary Ebook

The American stereotype in English Language Learning

What EFL students think outside when they hear the term "American." Unless you are an American, in all probability many images that come to mind will not be positive. Other images, such as the recent election of Barack Obama as America's first black president will be the opposite.

During a class on introduction to American history, an American professor wanted to illustrate what kind of stereotypes and prejudices that Swedes and other nationalities have on the United States. So, first, students were invited to Swedish, one minute, write down what they have heard about when "The EU". Much of people thought of fast food, Bush, Starbucks, CSI, FBI, NRA, fat people, and according to the teacher, the Swedes also think that Americans have ugly hair. This according to a blog post "The Americans stereotyped" by The Norrland in his blog.

What is a stereotype?

Webster's New World Dictionary defines stereotype as "a fixed or conventional notion or conception, from a person, group, idea, etc. Held by a number of people and not allowing for individuality; critical appreciation of the people. "In other words, is when you pre-judge people based solely on their nationality, race, religion, language, sex or other external factors.

Regarding stereotypes Americans, cuts both ways. The Americans have stereotypes of different language groups and ethnic or religious. You can imagine the stereotypes of American Muslims, Arabs, Africans, Mexicans and Latin Americans, Russians, Scandinavians, Indians, Eastern Europeans and Chinese? Trust me, you do not want to know.

Not all Americans are bound by stereotypes, of course. But far too are and is in bad taste either way. The phrase "Ugly American" is based on the real behavior and real actions of real Americans. These stereotypes "simply does not represent all of us. Do your students watch" The Simpsons "," weed "or" CSI "? No only television, but Hollywood and his films have a dramatic role in promoting certain stereotypes highly unwelcomed among students of English as a foreign. What stereotypes are favored by these and numerous other television programs broadcast around the world?

"We see all kinds of "crazy" things in America on TV here (in Sweden), so that is obviously an important factor in how we see the Americans. Furthermore, we really do not like Bush here, and I think his policy also made us mistrust America, "says the Norrland.

In a comment added on stereotyped Americans Joyce said: "Do you think the Swedes have a bad impression of Americans? I think I would blame the media hence. I bet that some countries think that we all ride horses, have shootings in the streets and fight the Indians. "As Americans, of course, not have all the horses walking, there are unfortunately still battles "weapon on the streets" If you believe that American television.

Ask Your English as a Foreign Language Learners

Try this out of his English as a foreign language learners. Ask them what thoughts and images come to mind when they hear the term "American" or "U.S.." Maybe you will be more than a little surprised by their answers. So if you are an American or at least have a detailed knowledge of the United States closely, it's history and culture, his work is cut out for you. Are then with the responsibility to change stereotypes perceived with the input of fact and information. As the comments Norrland again, "It's really interesting to think about how you see other people. "

After all that I say, a large part of foreign language learning is culture, not? So get to it then, and do not forget to have some fun with it too.

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