Considering Bias: The Preston Deposition
What is the point of view of my source?
This source gave me a lot of information, but how do I know what it says is true? To find out, I need to consider the bias of the source.
Just as I considered bias in the Boston Massacre poster, I ask myself these questions as I think about a written document:
- Who created the document?
- Is there anything I know about the person that will help me understand the bias of the source?
- Where was the person during the event?
- Why did the person create this document? Could this person have anything to lose or gain?
- What are some key parts or words in the document that I think reveal the bias?
Who created the document?
Is there anything I know about the person that will help me understand the bias of the source?
Where was the person during the event?
Why did the person create this document? Could this person have anything to lose or gain?
What are some key parts or words in the document that I think reveal the bias?
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Summary:
Historical inquiry process continues with:
- Considering the bias of a source
Terry's Tips
Support students in evaluating bias
Help students recognize different ways to find bias in a source. Make a check list (or work with students to make a check list), worksheet or graphic that helps them work through sources and ask key questions to evaluate bias.
For a lesson to support students' skills in evaluating perspective and bias, see Distinguishing Biased and Impartial Perspectives