Search the courses, subjects, tracks, games and features, or jump straight to a page.
Learn it your way
A short class with Sarah and her students. The other ways are under More.
Sign up free to listen. Transcripts are free to read.
Today, we're going to explore the difference between facts and opinions. Can anyone tell me what a fact is?
A fact is something that can be proven true or false.
Absolutely! And can anyone give me an example of a fact?
The Earth revolves around the Sun is a fact.
Great example! Now, what about an opinion?
An opinion is what someone believes or feels, but it can't be proven.
Correct! What are some phrases we often hear that signal an opinion?
Phrases like 'I think,' 'I believe,' or 'in my opinion.'
Exactly! Remember the acronym 'FOP'—Facts, Opinions, and the Phrases that signal them. Let's practice identifying facts and opinions together!
Now that we've discussed facts and opinions, let's move on to the concept of bias. How would you define bias?
A bias is an unfair preference for or against something.
That's right! Bias can affect the way information is presented. What are some sources of bias?
It can come from personal experiences, like how someone grew up.
Also, political views can create bias in writing.
Great points! When reading non-fiction, we need to be aware of language choices. Who can give me an example of loaded language?
Saying 'This is the best solution' instead of 'This could be a solution' carries a stronger bias.
Exactly! Remember the mnemonic 'ABAC': Acknowledge Bias and Analyze Content. Practice identifying bias in the articles for homework!
Let's take what we've learned about facts, opinions, and bias, and apply it! Here's a short text. Can anyone identify whether statements are facts or opinions?
Sure! I see one that says 'Dogs are the best pets,' which is an opinion.
And 'Dogs can be trained to follow commands' is a fact.
Excellent! Now, let’s discuss any biases present. What else can you find?
The text mentions 'only responsible owners should have pets' which sounds biased.
Very insightful! Remember, recognizing bias helps us critically analyze what we read. For homework, find an article and identify its facts, opinions, and biases!
A fact can always be checked, an opinion's just your own respect.
Imagine a cat and dog at a debate; the dog argues his view while the cat can only state, 'I think dogs are for the best adventures—' it's his opinion and he won’t rest!
FOP: Fact, Opinion, and Phrases help us distinguish what's true or just a viewpoint.
BASICS: Bias, Analysis, Statements, Influence, Context, Signifiers—keys to uncovering unfairness!
Term
Define a 'Fact'.
Click to flip
Term
What is an 'Opinion'?
Click to flip
Term
What is 'Bias'?
Click to flip
Term
Identify 'Loaded Language'.
Click to flip
A statement that can be proven true or false through objective evidence.
A personal belief that cannot be objectively proven true or false.
A prejudice or inclination for or against something, usually in an unfair manner.
Words that evoke strong emotional responses and indicate bias.
Presenting only one perspective on an issue, ignoring counterarguments.
This section focuses on the essential skills for identifying fact from opinion and recognizing bias in non-fiction texts.
In this section, students explore the fundamental differences between factual statements and personal opinions, alongside techniques to identify bias. Practical exercises help reinforce these concepts through real-world examples from non-fiction texts.
This section is a vital part of understanding non-fiction writing, where students learn to differentiate between facts and opinions. The core principles include:
In practical applications, students will engage in exercises that ask them to identify statements as facts or opinions from various texts, providing hands-on experience with critical reading.
Understanding these distinctions is crucial for fostering a critical approach to reading non-fiction texts, allowing students to engage more deeply with the material.