GENDER AND ETHNIC DEPICTION IN EFL TEXTBOOKS: AN EXPLORATORY STUDY
Abstract
Punjab Textbook Board Lahore. Various research studies portraying women in EFL/ESL textbooks (Ansary and Babi, 2003; Hartman and Judd, 1978) have shown that the several roles of women such as stereotype mothers and housewives are consistently being perpetuated in several existing language textbooks. Moreover, many cultures portrayed in these textbooks are devoid of true representation of their ethnic make-up. Considerable sections of the depicted society in the textbooks are either underrepresented or neglected altogether. Therefore, the current has investigated the existing textbooks of English language Punjab Textbook Board Lahore at school level for unpacking the role of man and women particularly the portrayal of women in their stereotypical roles, and delineation of ethnic groups i.e. the textual representation of ethnic groups. For this purpose three English textbooks of grade 6th, 7th and 8th were selected and then analyzed by using discourse and content analysis technique
The outcomes reflected that English Textbooks used at elementary level in government schools keep on presenting women in its stereotypical roles such as typical traditional mothers and housewives underestimating her intellectual and physical potential, which have been observed in the developed countries. The society is divided on ethnic line which is given great importance. The study bears importance as it will bring into limelight the deplorable condition and status of women, helping to improve their status and conditions.
