Seeing Bias

Deciding On Sources #10

Worksheet Description

This worksheet is a guide for evaluating potential biases in research sources. It encourages the user to scrutinize various aspects of a source, such as the author’s identity, the ownership of the publication, advertising content, political slant, balance of argument presentation, language use, evidence support, and citation practices. These elements are critical in determining whether a source might have a bias that could slant the information provided, making it crucial for thorough research and informed decision-making about the use of the source.

The worksheet is intended to teach students how to critically assess the objectivity of a source. It highlights the importance of recognizing bias, which can manifest through various channels such as advertising, language, and lack of balanced viewpoints. By prompting students to ask specific questions about the source, it equips them with the ability to discern credible information from biased content. This is an essential skill for developing a balanced and accurate research project.