8 Questions
What is the writer's view on the care needs of cats and dogs?
Cats require only moderate care, while dogs are extremely difficult to care for
In the example about voting for a candidate, what assumption does the writer make?
Politicians need to be morally upright personally to do their jobs properly
What is the writer's claim in the example about Precision Printers?
The reader should buy one of the latest models of Precision Printers
How does the writer define a stereotype?
A widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing
What does the writer suggest about the way stereotypes distort reality?
They present skewed views of whole groups of people
What is the writer's advice regarding identifying assumptions in a piece of writing?
Assumptions should be consciously identified and critically evaluated.
How does the writer define a stereotype?
A fixed and simplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing.
In the example about voting for a candidate, what assumption does the writer make?
The opponent has a better moral life than Congressman Smith.
Study Notes
Biases, Assumptions, and Stereotypes
- Biases, assumptions, and stereotypes are common in many types of writing and can influence how readers feel about people or things.
- A bias occurs when a writer shows a partiality for or prejudice against someone, something, or an idea.
Identifying Biases
- Biases can be explicit in direct statements or implicit in a writer's:
- Choice of words
- Selection of facts or examples
- Tone of voice
- Everyone has biases that reflect their opinions and outlooks on life, making it normal and natural for writing to exhibit some bias.
- A reader's job is to recognize biases and think critically about them to determine their impact on the writer's presentation.
Recognizing Biases
- Ask yourself:
- Does the writer use overly positive or overly negative language about the subject?
- Does the writer use emotionally charged language about the subject?
- Does the writer use vague or generalized language about the subject?
- Recognizing biases takes practice and critical thinking.
Test your awareness of biases, assumptions, and stereotypes with this quiz. Challenge yourself to recognize and analyze these sneaky devices in writing to become a more effective reader.
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