Vocabulary:
I will read the words, meanings, and sample sentences. Then, repeat after me.
- filter /FIL-ter /
- facial /FEY-shuhl/
- spark /spahrk/
- representation /rep-ri-zen-TEY-shuhn/
- shape /sheyp/
[noun] – a tool for creating special effects on an image
I applied a filter to the photo to enhance its colors.
[adjective] – of or on the face
She applied a facial cleanser to remove dirt and impurities from her face.
[verb] – to cause the start of something
The inspiring speech by the guest speaker sparked enthusiasm and motivation in the audience.
[noun] – the way that someone or something is shown or described
The museum’s collection offers a diverse representation of different art movements and styles throughout history.
[verb] – to decide or influence the form of something, especially a belief or idea, or someone’s character
My parents’ values and teachings have shaped my sense of morality.
Article reading:
Please read the whole article. Then, I will check your pronunciation and intonation.
Bold Glamour, a viral beautifying filter on TikTok, uses machine learning to enhance users’ facial features with remarkable realism. While some are impressed by the technology, others worry about promoting unrealistic beauty standards. However, social media platforms have also sparked positive movements, like #AcnePositivity and #BodyHairPositivity, encouraging self-acceptance and challenging taboos. Sadly, digital filters and augmented reality (AR) have become integral to online self-representation. Studies show that a majority of young women in the UK use filters when posting selfies, and platforms like TikTok offer diverse representations of beauty. Instagram filters allow for experimentation and the exploration of different appearances, makeup looks, and even gender expression.
Personalization and AI technologies are transforming the beauty industry. Trendio provides personalized shopping experiences through video content, while AI-powered personalization ensures inclusivity for underrepresented demographics. Brands like Estée Lauder and L’Oréal have developed accessible technologies, such as voice-enabled makeup assistants and handheld applicators, empowering people with disabilities to enjoy beauty products. In video games, efforts are being made to increase avatar inclusivity, challenging traditional beauty standards. Dove’s partnership with Women in Games and Epic Games aims to create a more diverse representation of women and girls, fostering self-esteem, education, and inclusivity. The future of beauty representation lies in avatars and digital twins, which allow individuals to express their online personas separately from their real-world appearance. While concerns exist about unrealistic beauty standards, technology has also sparked positive movements and encouraged self-acceptance. Digital filters, AR, personalization, accessibility, and inclusive avatars are shaping a more diverse and empowering beauty landscape.
Personalization and AI technologies are transforming the beauty industry. Trendio provides personalized shopping experiences through video content, while AI-powered personalization ensures inclusivity for underrepresented demographics. Brands like Estée Lauder and L’Oréal have developed accessible technologies, such as voice-enabled makeup assistants and handheld applicators, empowering people with disabilities to enjoy beauty products. In video games, efforts are being made to increase avatar inclusivity, challenging traditional beauty standards. Dove’s partnership with Women in Games and Epic Games aims to create a more diverse representation of women and girls, fostering self-esteem, education, and inclusivity. The future of beauty representation lies in avatars and digital twins, which allow individuals to express their online personas separately from their real-world appearance. While concerns exist about unrealistic beauty standards, technology has also sparked positive movements and encouraged self-acceptance. Digital filters, AR, personalization, accessibility, and inclusive avatars are shaping a more diverse and empowering beauty landscape.
Discussion Questions:
I will read each question. Then, please answer them.
- How do you feel about the use of viral beautifying filters like Bold Glamour on TikTok? Do you find them intriguing and entertaining, or do you have concerns about the potential promotion of unrealistic beauty standards?
- Have you ever used filters or augmented reality (AR) features on social media platforms to enhance your own appearance? How did it make you feel, and how do you think it influenced your self-representation online?
- Are you aware of any positive movements on social media, such as #AcnePositivity or #BodyHairPositivity, that challenge beauty norms and promote self-acceptance?
- The article mentions efforts in video games to increase avatar inclusivity and challenge traditional beauty standards. How important do you think it is for the gaming industry to prioritize diverse representation in character customization? What impact can this have on players’ self-esteem and identity?
- Do you believe we are moving towards a more diverse and empowering representation of beauty? What further changes or improvements would you like to see in the future?
Summarization
Please summarize the whole article using your own words and expressions. You will have one minute to prepare before you answer.
Describe:
Please explain the definition of each word listed below based on your understanding. You can provide example sentences if needed.
- viral
- unrealistic beauty standards
- self-acceptance
- selfie
- inclusivity