Stated Information
What has acne been widely perceived as until recently?
a ‘flaw’, an imperfection just like wrinkles, spots and scars
Complete the following sentence based on the information in paragraph 4. Use one word to fill in each blank.
All answers can be found in that paragraph.
having acne should not cause a person’s face to be seen as (ii)______
flawed
Is the writer opposed to people using cosmetics? Explain your answer using evidence from the text.
No, the writer is not opposed to people using cosmetics, saying ‘You can still conceal your pustules with cosmetics ...
What is the ‘offence’ mentioned in paragraph 1?
posting a friend’s picture without first touching it up (lines 9-10)
Why might posting a friend’s picture without first touching it up be seen as an offence?
because people do not want their ‘flaws’ to be seen publicly on social media (any reasonable answer)
Which word in paragraph 4 means ‘damaging’?
debilitating
How do you think social media influences beauty standards among young people today?
(suggested answer) Social media plays a huge role in shaping beauty standards because many influencers showcase edited images that can create unrealistic expectations. However, platforms like Instagram also allow for movements like skin positivity to gain traction, showing that some people are starting to embrace natural beauty. This duality can lead to both pressure and empowerment.
Whose opinion does the writer mention in paragraph 4?
dermatologists’
Why might the self-love movement have contributed to changing perceptions about acne?
The text mentions that young people today value natural looks and authenticity, suggesting that the self-love movement promotes acceptance of imperfections, which may help shift perceptions about acne.
Complete the following sentence based on the information in paragraph 4. Use one word to fill in each blank.
All answers can be found in that paragraph.
Acne and other blemishes are (i) _______ _______ _________,
common skin conditions
What do Kadeeja Sel Khan’s and Sofia Grahn’s social media accounts promote? (Three things)
What do Kadeeja Sel Khan’s and Sofia Grahn’s social media accounts promote?
What personal experiences do you have with societal pressures regarding appearance?
(suggested answers) I've felt pressure to look a certain way, especially when scrolling through social media and seeing perfect images. Friends often comment on each other’s appearances, which can make me feel self-conscious about my own skin. However, I also appreciate when people share their imperfections, as it reminds me that everyone has flaws.
What reason for the change in mentality about one’s skin is given in paragraph 3?
Today’s young people in general value natural looks and authenticity and do not accept society’s unrealistic expectations about one's skin.
How do societal beauty standards impact individuals' self-esteem, based on the text?
The text indicates that unrealistic beauty standards, particularly those shown in photoshopped images, can lead people to feel that their natural blemishes are unacceptable, impacting their self-esteem negatively.
What word in the text means "to make something appear more attractive by altering it"?
touching it up
What is the main idea of the passage regarding beauty standards and acne?
The text discusses the rise of the skin positivity movement, emphasizing how it encourages people to celebrate their natural skin and reject unhealthy beauty standards, suggesting a shift in societal perceptions of acne.
In what ways can embracing natural skin conditions benefit mental health?
Embracing natural skin conditions can lead to improved mental health by reducing anxiety about appearance. When people accept their flaws, they may feel more confident and less pressured to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. This acceptance can foster a more positive self-image and decrease the negative effects of comparison.
Who is Kadeeja Sel Khan, and what role does she play in the skin positivity movement?
an influencer and self-described ‘acne model’
What might be the psychological effects of obsessively comparing one’s skin to others?
The text states that compulsively inspecting and comparing one’s skin can take a toll on mental health, implying that such behavior might lead to anxiety or low self-esteem.
Which word refers to the act of treating skin blemishes or imperfections?
conceal
How does the skin positivity movement challenge traditional views of beauty?
According to the text, the movement promotes acceptance of common skin conditions and pushes back against unrealistic beauty ideals, indicating a growing preference for authenticity over perfection in beauty standards.