(At the follwoing of what we did last time)

To conclude we can say that the three documents show uncommon types of masculinity. In fact, each representation of masculinity has their own originality and highlights the fact that masculinity standards are evolving. As a matter of fact, none of these representations meet the mainstream beauty standards for men.

In the media, people are different and that is why we like them. Therefore, we want to look like them with their differences that make them cool and pretty. Besides, it emphasizes the fact that there are different ways to be beautiful and that we all have our own beauty. That is what makes beauty so special because if everyone was pretty and perfect there won’t be anything special in being handsome.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

 (At the following of what we did last time)

Group 3: No More Mr. Muscle

The document under study is an article, published in the Guardian in 2020. The article presents a form of masculine beauty where size and skin color do not matter. Indeed, this text shows a body-positive vision of masculinity. It differ from mainstream beauty standards because people are taught that being lean and muscular shows that you are able to control your weight and what you eat so that you do not get fat. Nevertheless, like women, men also have different body types. Unfortunately, Kevin Davis, mentioned in the article, explains that he has already been body-shamed in a clothes shop by a salesperson/sales assistant because of his appearance. Since a young age, children have been taught that being lean and muscular should be the norm. Nonetheless, this does not represent inclusivity and equal representation.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

 (At the follwoig of what we did last time)

Group 2: K-pop Models

The document is an article from the BBC. It presents a vision of masculinity that is inclusive stereotypical male aesthetics are changing to androgyny figures: men are wearing more make-up and are looking more feminine. It differs from mainstream beauty standards such as blue-eyed famous icons such as Brad Pitt with colored hair, unique clothing styles and colorful make-up with no shame. Even if it is “deemed unorthodox by traditional Wester, standards”, this new trend is becoming more and more “influential in mainstream media”.

Group 3: No more Mr. Muscle

The document under study is an article from the Guardian, published in 2020. It presents a body-positive vision of masculinity: “too big”, “dark skin”, “big soft belly”… It differs from mainstream beauty standards because people are taught that men should be lean and muscular with a light skin. However, like women, men also have different body types. Kevin Davis was even body-shamed in a shop where a salesperson told him he was too big to shop there. Unfortunately, kids are still taught that being lean and muscular should be the norm.

 Homework: Learn the lesson.

A Brave New Beautiful

Group 1: The Rise of the Noodle Boys

The document under study is an article extracted from the New York Times, published in 2024. It describes a vision of masculinity based being skinny and young, having an angular jawline. Hence, masculine power no longer comes from the body, but it comes from elsewhere.

It differs from the mainstream beauty standards as they look for men built like a fridge, tall with a deep voice, with defined muscles. Chalamet is the opposite.

The journalist does not sound to agree with the new trend. This is highlighted in his use of unflattering words such as comparing his hair with pasta and describing him as if he were a child (child-like appearance).

(We will continue the study of these texts next time)

Homework: Learn the lesson.

A Brave New Beautiful

Group 1: The Rise of the Noodle Boy

The document under study is an extract from an article published in The New York Times in 2024. The journalist is depicting a more feminine vision of masculinity. Masculine power no longer has to emerge/come from the body but can from elsewhere. It differs from mainstream beauty standards, indeed people see as masculine a man with a broad and built body with defined muscles. Here Timothée Chalamet is the opposite. The journalist is describing the new trend using unflattering adjectives when he describes Chalamet, in fact, he does not seem to like it.

Group 2 K-Pop Models

The document under study is an article from the BBC published in 2021. The article id presenting a vision of masculinity, from Brad Pitt to the BTS (K-pop group). Brad Pitt was the blue-eyed man with defined muscles; masculinity has evolved now to more androgynous form of male beauty with colored hair and make-up. It differs from traditional beauty standards which the references were DiCaprio or Pitt, now we can see men with more feminine traits.

In the past, it was not easy for these people to show up as they wished to. However, nowadays, the Asian market provides more and more interests in these people.

(We will continue the study of these texts next time)

Homework: Learn the lesson.

Pretty Hurts Analysis

The document under study is a video clip for the song entitled “Pretty Hurts” by the famous African-American singer Beyoncé.

In the video, we can see several women taking part in a beauty pageant.

In the backstage, every woman seems to be rival for example, we can see some fighting to have a blow-dryer. Besides, they are not supportive to one another at all. They seem to eat as little as possible to stay fit. We can even see one of them eating cotton balls to trick her stomach into being full. Some even go through surgery. Moreover, they are constantly measured and weighed. The goal of all that is to stay fit and look beautiful.

On stage, they look happy and beautiful, smiling fully. Nevertheless, in reality they are miserable, they had to suffer to be where they are.

Beyoncé’s message through her song is that she is denouncing the impact of the beauty industry that is conveying stereotypes and beauty standards that are painful to young girls and women in general. People should change their mentalities and accept and love their differences.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

A Young Man’s Portrait

The document under study is an extract of a novel entitled “The Picture of Dorian Gray”, published in 1891, written by Oscar Wilde.

It is about Dorian Gray, a narcissistic handsome young man who lives in London.

In this scene, there are three characters: Dorian Gray, the eponymous protagonist who is discovering his portrait. He is accompanied by Lord Henry who is a friend. There is also Basil Hallward, the artist who painted Dorian’s portrait. They are all at Hallward’s studio to discover the painting. Upon seeing the portrait, everyone seems amazed by Hallward’s artwork. Dorian seems to be shocked/amazed/ astonished by his own beauty. Nevertheless, at the same time, the painting makes him aware that his beauty will fade away with time, as he grows older. Besides, he becomes aware of his own mortality as a human being.

 A Young Man’s Portrait

The document under study is an extract of a novel entitled “The Picture of Dorian Gray”, written by Oscar Wilde in 1891. It is about Dorian Gray, a narcissistic young man who lives in London.

In this extract, there are three characters: Lord Henry who is a friend of Dorian, Dorian himself, eponymous protagonist who is discovering his portrait painted by Basil Hallward. They are in Hallward studio to discover his artwork.

Upon seeing/once he sees his portrait, Dorian seems to love it. Lord Henry is also impressed by this piece of art. It is as if he is discovering his beauty and he seems to fall in love with himself. Nevertheless, he understands he is not going to be young and handsome for his whole life, he is going to get old and get wrinkled. Indeed, this painting makes him aware of his own mortality as a human being.

Homework: Learn the lesson. 

Unit 1: Look at me Now

How do your appearance and self-image mirror your personality?

Axis 4: Representation of Self and Relationships with Others.

The document under study is a short movie entitled “Aspirational”. The main character is Kirsten Dunst, a famous American movie star who played in several movies, such as Jumanji, Spiderman, Marie-Antoinette… We see her getting outside from her house, waiting for a Uber to meet some friends.

Then, suddenly, a car stops in front of her, 2 young girls who recognize her get off of the car to take pictures of her with her. Unfortunately, the two girls are not really polite as they do not even ask for Dunst’s permission to take pictures with her. Moreover, they do not even interact with her even if Dunst tries to start a conversation with them.

Dunst was shocked, sad and confused because of the selfish/narcissistic behavior of these girls.

Indeed, the girls seem not to care about who is Dunst in real life, they only wanted to post their pictures on their social media to have more followers and impressed their friends on social media. Besides, they also wanted to use Dunst’s fame for their own benefits.

To conclude, the goal/message of this video is to denounce the excess of the use of social media, how people focus more on their image in the virtual world rather than living their lives in the real world.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

Teamwork: Advantages and drawbacks

The document under study is a recording about the opinions of three students about teamwork. We can hear about the advantages that are the possibility to make new friends. Moreover, it can help us to improve our self-confidence. Besides, it is easier to speak in a smaller group. Furthermore, it can teach us to be better listeners. On the other hand, there are obstacles/drawbacks/limits to teamwork: indeed, sometimes it can be difficult to agree with everyone. In addition, some people will not make the effort to listen to everyone. At first, it looks really difficult and useless. Eventually, when everyone does some good efforts, we all learn important skills.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

  Teamwork, advantages and drawbacks

The document under study is a recording about the advantages and obstacles of teamwork. The advantages are that teamwork is an opportunity to talk with other students. Moreover, it is possible to make new friends. Besides, it is easier to talk in a small group. Indeed, it also builds your confidence. On top of that, teamwork can teach us to be better listeners.

On the other hand, there can be drawbacks to teamwork, for example people will not always agree with you. In addition, not everyone is listening to one another, therefore, everyone should/has to make efforts to respect one another.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

 Teamwork: a definition

Teamwork allows to create some connections with people you do not really know. You can also feel more at ease to speak in a small group.

It is necessary to communicate, collaborate and listen to one another in order to work as best as possible. Moreover, you have to choose your collaborators wisely and be able to trust them.

In addition, teamwork is obviously a group of people who work together. Each person in the group gives their ideas to have the best performance.

Besides, teamwork means to work together to achieve the same goals by sharing ideas and by supporting each other.

Homework: Learn the language.

Come to class with me!

The document under study an email written by a student called Tim. He tells about a typical school day. He comes from an English-speaking country but it is not explicitly said. He is writing an email to a French penpal/penfriend. We learn that Tim lives nearby his school as he only has a 15-minute walk to school. He does not eat at the school cafeteria because he prepares his own lunch. Moreover, he loves art, indeed he has several passions: dancing, acting and singing. Besides, we learn that his first classes start at 8.45am and classes finish at 3.25pm. Then he goes back and chills. However, on Tuesdays he stays at school for drama club.

In his school, the compulsory subjects are English, maths, Science and PE. The optional ones are French, geography and dancing.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

 My Path to Success

ð  For Kenny

It’s ok to have difficulties with English grammar, you could get a tutor to have private lessons.

You should try to read some books.

It’s not a problem, you can learn your grammar lessons regularly and if you do not understand you can ask the teacher to explain more.

ð  Brenda

That’s fine, you can train with someone you trust like your relatives until you can do it in public.

You should try to speak in front of a few students first.

A lot of people are in the same case as you. You should take drama classes it will help you to build your confidence.

ð  Joshua

You can ask your teacher if your sentences make sense.

I advise you to try to make easy and short sentences with words that you understand better.

You should read books to improve your vocabulary.

It’s ok, you should ask the teacher for some help.

You could practice using short and easy sentences at first. Then, you could improve them with more complex words.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

My Path to Success

ð  For Kenny:

You could study more and help yourself with a grammar book.

You must listen very carefully in class.

You should have a look at the grammar section at the end of your textbook.

You should try the Spelling Bee Contest to work on your grammar.

You could take some private classes.

ð  For Brenda:

There is no secret, you should practice speaking in front of a public.

You should imagine you are speaking to a group of people you know.

You could hire an elocution coach.

You should try drama classes.

You should try to speak in front of your parents.

You should practice your communication skills with your classmates.

ð  For Joshua:

You must isolate the word you understand and go from there to make your sentences.

You could train often with a partner who/that is good at making sentences.

You must go to English speaking countries to improve your oral skills.

You could manage to practice every day.

You should read more books.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

Similarities and differences with the French school system.

French and British students go to school with their backpacks on whereas American students are not allowed to have backpacks.

In French schools, 100% of the final grade are based on your exams unlike in American schools, 50-60% of your final grade are based on doing your homework or being present.

Regarding/Concerning summer holidays, French students have 2 months of vacation, as opposed to the British who have 6 weeks and the Americans have 3 months.

In French schools, all your grades in PE are based on your abilities contrary to American students’ grades, 30% of their grade are based on their outfits.

My Qualities

 (At the following of what we did last time)

Similarities and Differences with the French school System

In American schools, they have cheerleaders unlike in French schools, the system of cheerleading does not exist. Moreover, in France students are not graded in participation or for their homework contrary to American students. British students and French students do not have lockers in their schools as opposed to American students. In American schools, students have 3 months of summer vacation as opposed to French students who have 2 months of summer. In American schools, they have 4 years of high school unlike in French schools, there are 3 years of high school. Moreover, in the USA, the school days are shorter so that students can practice activities offered by the school they want such as sports, drama, music, journalism, clubs… Whereas in France, French students have longer days and any activities are extracurricular ones, done in the evening most of the time.

My Qualities

Isaac is independent because he likes to work alone/by himself.

Elie is energetic because he likes to encourage his classmates and is always in action.

Maya is also energetic because she always has a lot of energy.

Romane is positive because she always tries to find the best solution in any situation.

Louise is reliable because her friends can count on her.

Sandaru is independent because he can do his own work he does need anyone to carry him.

Andrea is kind because he is gentle with people.

 Differences with the American and the British school systems.

The document under study is a video about the differences between the American and the British school systems. We have learned that in American schools, students have 3 months of summer holiday. As opposed to the British students, indeed, they only have 6 weeks of summer vacation.

Moreover, in American school, in PE (Physical Education) classes, students should wear the colors of the school to make sure to have 30% of their final grade. On top of that, American students are not allowed to have backpacks at school for security reasons, as a result they have to hold all their books with them. They have lockers in which they can leave their books. Contrary to British students, they do not have lockers and have their books in their backpacks. Furthermore, in the USA, they have nine classes. In addition, the grading (US) /marking (UK) system is different: in the USA, students just need to be present, to participate and do their homework to have a good grade. Whereas British students have to pass tests, which represents 80% of the final grade, the other 20% refer to a grade for their project.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

Group 1

Each one of us likes pop music.

Each one of us likes green.

We all agree on the fact that school is a great place to socialize.

We all think that pasta is great food.

Group 2

Every person in our group practices some sport.

We all went on a vacation this summer.

We all like watching TV.

Group 3

Everyone likes to practice sport.

Every person in our group has already been to London.

Each person in our group has already been to Spain.

We all have already visited Asia.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

Common Points

Group 1

-We all have already been to Euro Disney.

-We all live in the same city.

-Each of us has already been to the UK.

-Our favorite subject at school is physics.

Group 2

-Each of us has already been to the USA once.

-We all have practiced dance once.

-Every person in our group is from Maurois.

-We all have siblings.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

-We are all born in 2011.

Group 3

-We all hate French classes.

-Each of us practices a sport.

-Everyone of us enjoys listening music.