Understanding the key terms relating to equal opportunities.

The idea

Understanding equal opportunities requires defining five key terms: discrimination, prejudice, stereotype, myth, and role model. Prejudice is a preconceived opinion not based on reason. Discrimination is the unfair treatment of individuals based on characteristics like race or gender; it is prejudice in action. A stereotype is a widely held but oversimplified image of a particular type of person. A myth is a widely held but false belief or idea. A role model is a person looked to by others as an example to be imitated.

For example: The myth that women are physically incapable of playing rugby can reinforce gender stereotypes and reduce female participation, hindering equal opportunities.

What earns the marks

• Define prejudice as a preconceived opinion or attitude that is not based on reason or actual experience.
• Define discrimination as the unfair treatment or action against individuals based on characteristics such as race or gender.
• Define stereotype as a widely held but oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person, and myth as a widely held but false belief.
• Define role model as a person looked to by others as an example to be imitated.
• Explain how stereotypes, myths, and discrimination hinder equal opportunities, while positive role models promote them.

Common mistakes and how to put them right

• Confusing prejudice with discrimination.

  Put it right: Prejudice is an attitude or belief, whereas discrimination is the unequal treatment or action that follows from it.

• Assuming stereotypes and myths are accurate representations.

  Put it right: Stereotypes are oversimplified images and myths are false beliefs that create unfair barriers to participation.

• Believing role models only impact elite athletes.

  Put it right: Role models are crucial at the grassroots level for inspiring underrepresented groups and promoting equal opportunities.

Exam tips

• When distinguishing between terms, look for 'action' or 'treatment' to identify discrimination, and 'attitude' or 'belief' for prejudice.
• Use specific sporting examples to illustrate how a lack of role models or the presence of myths can reinforce stereotypes and reduce participation.
• Eliminate options that define a term incorrectly or swap the definitions of prejudice, discrimination, and myth.