Linguistic Realization of Gender Representation in EFL Textbooks

Abstract

The aim of the research was to determine linguistic means of gender representation in the Lithuanian, British and Argentinian EFL textbooks. To achieve the aim, EFL textbooks circulated in Lithuania (Super English 4), the UK (Speakout) and Argentina (My Life 2) were analyzed with regard to linguistic means of gender representation. The results revealed that the Lithuanian EFL textbook uses compound nouns and proverbs or sayings comprising a word man which is used in its generic meaning. Moreover, the analysis of verbs used to define gender in the British EFL textbook demonstrated that females are involved in more various mental processes in relation to males. In contrast, the Argentinian EFL textbook can be treated as the best-balanced textbook with regard to gender-biased use of language. Further studies can examine other aspects of gender representation and cover wider range of EFL textbooks.