Media Literacy: Detecting Bias

We extended our exploration of media literacy by examining bias.  Fortunately, students have recently covered bias in math class and have a very good understanding of how bias leads viewers and readers towards certain conclusions.

We began by looking at bias in visual constructions. I selected two political figures, one from American politics the other Canadian who have a strong media presence, Sarah Palin and Stephen Harper.  Each provoked strong reaction, but we were not viewing the images to discuss politics.  Our purpose was to determine bias in their construction.

Students could clearly see that some photos were constructed to create a positive impression, one of authority - particularly those with the flags in the backgrounds.  As well, Palin had caring mother and attractive supermodel attached to her message.  Other images were constructed to create a negative or silly impression, or to make the figures look foolish. 

We then examined a blog post, again from American politics which is so full these days of examples of bias.  Again, we were not viewing the post for agreement or disagreement with the message; we merely examined it for bias.  Students were quick to recognize:

1. It presented only one point of view.

2. References and proof were not provided.

3. The "brain surgeon" was not identified and was there to provide credibility through reference to an "expert".

4. Language was chosen to create fear. "Shock" "death panels"

I was pleased that most students were quite strong in their ability to recognize bias and describe how the validity of the information could be checked.

We then looked at how bias creeps into news reporting.  

They've now been given the following information and are to construct two news articles, one in a way that evokes sympathy and one that provokes anger.  Images must be included. They are not to include any additional factual information, but must use language to lead the reader toward a conclusion.

1.  a 22 year old man arrested at the scene of a car accident.

2. other driver is in hospital

3. occurred late Thursday evening

4. foggy country road

5. driver arrested may have fallen asleep at the wheel

6. alcohol may be a factor

7. driver had just completed a double shift at work

8. driver has been in two previous accidents, but was not at fault

9. the other car was speeding

The purpose of the activity is to develop awareness.  In deliberately constructing biased messages, students will hopefully be more apt to think critically about the language and images they encounter.