1. Identifying One Form of Bias
Stereotypes
Identifying One Form of Bias

2. A Stereotype
Is a generalization or broad belief about a group of people. It differentiates one group from another.

3. Stereotypes Can spread positive or negative messages.
There is often a focus on race and gender when discussing stereotypes.
But, “groups” can be stereotyped. For example: Men are good at math. Or, American tourists are rude.
Can you think of some stereotypes you have heard or read in the media?

4. Worksheet Activity: Identifying Forms of Bias in the media and culture & whether bias affects evidence.
List at least 3 groups (racial, ethic, political, gender, organization members, religious members, memberships - other, etc.)
List at least 3 positive stereotypes you have heard about each group.
List at least 3 negative stereotypes you have heard about each group.
List at 3 least sources that you have read or watched that expressed positive or negative biases about the groups discussed above.
List examples of bias you have experienced viewing on social media.

5. How could stereotypes effect the law?
Effect evidence collected?
DNA
Video surveillance footage
Where the evidence was found (neighborhood, block, type of car)
Other
Read:
Some argued that the murders of these children were not given the same attention on a national level, in newspapers or TV news reports because the children were African American. You be the judge.
Audra D. S. Burch. “Who Killed Atlanta’s Children?” The New York Times. April 30, May 22,
Watch:

6. How can forensic evidence prevent stereotyping from influencing the way evidence is used against a suspect?
Effect evidence collected?
DNA
Video surveillance footage
Where the evidence was found (neighborhood, block, type of car)
Other
Read:
Watch: