Analyzing gender stereotypes in elementary school English textbooks in China

Abstract

Foreign language textbooks, one of the important tools for learning knowledge and culture, are essential for students in not only acquiring knowledge, but also learning socially accepted ideas and concepts, including gender awareness. Therefore, it is necessary to study foreign language textbooks from a gender perspective. Through a review of existing research literature, this seminar paper analyzes the English textbooks published by the Foreign Language Teaching and Research Press in China and explores their potential impacts of gender stereotypes and gender stereotypes on students’ perceptions, social attitudes, and interpersonal behaviors. The study will help English teachers in China to recognize possible negative impacts of this phenomenon, guide students to develop critical thinking skills, and cultivate their gender and cultural awareness.