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This paper considers how teachers can deal with stereotypes in the classroom as they relate to foreign language learning goals, specifically the negative ethnic and cultural stereotypes held by Mexican university students about Americans and Canadians. It presents data concerning the emergence of stereotypes from various studies carried out in Mexico and Canada. Bias surrounding the learning of English by Mexican university students surfaced in the negative stereotypes held by these students of speakers of the language. Students experience a dilemma when they perceive the English language as inseparable from its speakers and their cultures, knowing at the same time that the language has international status and that it is key to their future success. Research indicates that the most productive thing for teachers to do is to not focus on trying to eliminate, challenge, or modify these stereotypes but rather become more conscious of them and be able to discuss them with students in order that their prejudices not get in the way of learning English. (Contains 34 references.) (KFT) Reproductions supplied by EDRS are the best that can be made from the original document