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Representation

The way a person, a group within society, an event or place is portrayed by the media, picture books, organisations, businesses or other sources is known as 'representation'. Stereotypes are a form of representation. Representations may appear to be realistic, but you need to remember they have been constructed and so they can only 'represent' a version of reality - they are not actually reality.

Next, you will be looking at visual images as representations. So, what is a representation?

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representation

What word(s) can you identify in the word 'representation'? Look carefully as you may be able to see more than one.

Define the word(s) you have identified using a dictionary.

Define the word 'representation'.

'Present' and 'represent' are two words you should have identified.

The root word of representation is 'present'. In this case, it is a verb, or a 'doing' word.

The meaning of the word 'present' is to portray or to show something.

By adding the prefix 're', 'present' becomes represent. This is also a verb, or a doing word.

'Represent' means to portray, depict, stand for or symbolise.

By adding the suffix 'ation', 'represent' becomes 'representation'.

This converts the verb 'represent' into a noun. The process of changing a verb into a noun is called nominalisation.

A representation is a depiction, or portrayal, of an idea, a person or group of people, an object or experience from a particular perspective, or point of view. Representations can be in written, visual or aural form.

A representation may appear to be real, but it is constructed and is only one perspective or interpretation.

Check your answer

writing iconjournal icondiscussion icon

Select the link below. This will take you to the homepage of the Mother Goose Society. Select the link 'Long verses' then click on 'What Folks Are Made Of'. Read the nursery rhyme. You may have heard it when you were little.

http://www.delamar.org/

In your journal write your initial response to the rhyme then respond to the following questions. (Remember to practise your handwriting).

  • What is it saying about boys and girls?
  • Do you think this is an accurate way of representing boys and girls? Explain.
  • This poem was thought to be written in the early 1800s. How do you think this fact may explain the attitudes expressed in the poem?
  • Sketch or cut and paste a still image which you feel shows how the rhyme represents boys and girls.
  • How would boys and girls be represented in modern Australian society?
  • Your teacher may ask you to discuss your ideas with other class members.

journal iconwriting icondiscussion iconSelect the link below and complete the activity sheet.

Representing people