What is Bias? A media literacy lesson

Secondary Resources > KS3 PSHE / KS4 PSHE

Other Side of the Story is the media literacy project from BBC Bitesize aimed at 11-16-year olds. Other Side of the Story encourages teens to look behind the reels and posts on social media to really examine if they are only telling one side of the story.

This lesson can stand alone or be used as one of three lessons designed to cover the main aspects of media literacy.

This complete, 40-minute downloadable lesson is designed to give KS3 and KS4 students a deeper understanding of bias and how it affects the decisions we make. Using real world examples, it includes:

• A glossary of key terms
• Activities to make pupils aware of their own unconscious bias
• Discussion: What assumptions do we make about people based on looks?
• High quality video exploring bias in the general public, using famous figures
• Examples of bias on social media and in mainstream media
• Printable discussion points and prompts
• Teachers notes in the "Notes" section of the Powerpoint

Understanding bias is crucial for media literacy. Students will learn to identify bias in various media forms as well as learn to identify their own unconscious biases and discuss their impact. Discussion and debate activities will help them articulate their insights and consider multiple perspectives, promoting a balanced and critical approach to information.

These lessons are designed to align with the KS3 and KS4 National Curriculum, which emphasises the critical role of spoken language in pupils' cognitive, social, and linguistic development. They aim to enhance students' media literacy, while simultaneously developing their spoken language skills through structured discussions.

English - Pupils use their reading comprehension to analyse different types of media and explore how media uses different techniques and language to influence opinions.

Computing - Pupils are taught how to evaluate, create, and interact with media content, and they learn about the ethical implications of digital interactions.

PSHE - Pupils learn how media affect attitudes toward self, body image, relationships, and societal norms and how it can shape public opinion and effect the democratic process.