Name________________________
Period___________
BIAS
A bias is a prejudice , usually in the sense for having a predisposition to one
particular view or ideology. A bias could for example lead one to accept or nonaccept the truth of a claim, not because of the strength of the claim itself, but
because it does or does not correspond to one's own preconceived ideas.
(http://www.webster-dictionary.org/definition/bias)
Task:
 Examine a pair of issue statements on MSNBC.
(http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/5993610/)
 Locate the candidates’ statements on the same issue on www.georgewbush.com
and www.johnkerry.com.
 Decide whether the MSNBC issue statement is biased toward Kerry, Bush,
or neutral. Look at what is included in the issue brief, and what is not
included.
 Write a short essay about the bias that you notice in the MSNBC issue
statement. Include:
Introduction
Thesis/Opinion Statement (last sentence in 1st paragraph)
Three clear reasons to back up your opinion.
Evidence to support your reasons (quotes with explanation, or some
sort of reference to the TEXT of the issue statements.)
o Conclusion
o
o
o
o
 Don’t forget: Keep “I” out of your essay.