Lesson 2: Bias, Framing, and Language
Duration of Days: 3
Lesson Objective
Students will be able to identify and explain bias and framing by analyzing language, visuals, and emphasis in media coverage.
How does language shape interpretation?
What is the difference between bias and perspective?
Can multiple interpretations of the same event coexist?
Framing
Loaded language
Implicit bias
Perspective
D1.INQ.6.9–12 – Evaluate the credibility of claims and evidence
D2.HIS.1.9–12 – Analyze how historical contexts shape perspectives
D2.CIV.7.9–12 – Apply civic virtues and democratic principles to public issues
Analyzing word choice
Evaluating tone and rhetorical purpose
Students analyze headlines, images, and article leads covering the same global issue to identify framing techniques.
DOK Level: 3
Connections to political messaging and advertising
Discussion of clickbait culture
“Bias means false”
“Neutral language exists everywhere”
Side-by-side comparisons
Color-coded text analysis
Small-group analysis before discussion
Headline rewrite with justification
Short analytical paragraph
News headlines
Images
Articles