What is Bias? Everybody has thoughts and opinions on a subject. They have a point of view, a worldview, a place they are coming from. This is called ‘bias.’ It could also be called someone’s ‘slant,’ ‘ angle’ or their ‘take’ on a topic.

How Do I Identify Bias? Determine who the author or speaker is: Step 1: Determine who the author or speaker is: Find out as much as you can about them You can’t determine bias until you know a little something about what the authors’ feelings or experiences are. Some Key Questions to ask: Who does the author work for? What is their background? (e.g. what is their nationality, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, political affiliation, age, weight, etc.) Does your speaker have special skills or expertise in any area?

How Do I Identify Bias? Cont’d… Step 2: Determine what central point the author or speaker is trying to make: Find the main idea. Some Key Questions to ask: What is the main idea or central concept the author is trying to communicate? Be on the lookout for any specific actions that the writer or speaker wants you take.

How Do I Identify Bias? Cont’d… Step 3: Be on the lookout for loaded words, stereotypes, vague language and generalizations. Loaded Words Words that have strong emotions behind them. Ex. Today’s children are unruly and horrendous in class. Stereotypes Label all members of a group as being the same and does not take in to count individual differences. This often results in prejudice. Ex. All Mexicans are illegal. Statements that speak for the all situations or anything in its entirety. Lack of specificity In detail. Ex. Today’s children are unruly and horrendous in class. Ex. School cafeterias are horrible. Vague Language or Generalizations

How Do I Identify Bias? Cont’d… Step 4: Figure out what is left out. One Sided Arguments Words that have strong emotions behind them. Ex. Today’s children are unruly and horrendous in class. Selective Omission Deliberately leaving out details or ideas that might contradict the author’s point.