Bias Cue Finder Worksheet

Name: _____________________________

Date: _____________________________

Directions: Read each scenario below. Identify one bias cue present in the situation. Then, explain why it's unfair and propose a fair, alternative action or statement.

Scenario 1

During a science group project, one student says, "Let's have Sarah do all the drawing and presentation design. Girls are usually better at that stuff."

1. Bias Cue Identified:

2. Why is this unfair?

3. Propose a Fair Alternative:

Scenario 2

The basketball coach tells a new student, who uses a wheelchair, "You can just keep score for us, that's probably the most helpful thing you can do."

1. Bias Cue Identified:

2. Why is this unfair?

3. Propose a Fair Alternative:

Scenario 3

When assigning roles for the school play, the drama teacher automatically assumes that students who are quiet are not interested in speaking roles and only offers them backstage positions.

1. Bias Cue Identified:

2. Why is this unfair?

3. Propose a Fair Alternative:

Scenario 4

A teacher is handing out books and gives the heavier box of textbooks to a male student without asking, saying, "You look strong enough to handle this."

1. Bias Cue Identified:

2. Why is this unfair?

3. Propose a Fair Alternative:

Scenario 5

During a class debate, a student from a different cultural background is constantly interrupted or overlooked when they try to share their opinion, while others are allowed to speak freely.

1. Bias Cue Identified:

2. Why is this unfair?

3. Propose a Fair Alternative:

Inclusive Language Swap Discussion Guide

Goal: To discuss the bias cues identified in the Bias Cue Finder Worksheet and collectively brainstorm fair and inclusive alternative actions or statements.

Introduction (2 minutes)

Teacher Script: "Great work on the Bias Cue Finder Worksheet! Now, let's discuss some of these scenarios. The goal here isn't to find fault, but to learn how we can all be more aware and choose fairness in our words and actions. We want to 'swap out' biased language or actions for more inclusive ones."

Discussion Prompts (8 minutes)

(Choose 2-3 scenarios from the worksheet to discuss as a whole class. Encourage students to refer to their own answers and provide examples.)

For each chosen scenario:

1. "Who would like to share a bias cue they identified in this scenario?"

   • (Listen for responses like assumptions, stereotypes, non-inclusive language, lack of opportunity.)

2. "Why do you think this cue makes the situation unfair for the person or group involved?"

   • (Encourage students to explain the impact of the bias.)

3. "Now for the 'inclusive swap': How could the person in the scenario have acted or spoken differently to make it fair and inclusive? What specific words or actions would you change?"

   • (Guide students to offer concrete, actionable alternatives.)

   • Follow-up questions if needed:

     • "What if the student was good at drawing? Is it still biased to assume?"
       
       
       
     • "What does it mean to ask instead of assume?"
       
       
       
     • "How does offering choices promote fairness?"
       
       
       
     • "What if someone accidentally uses biased language? How can we gently correct them or offer an 'inclusive swap'?"
       
       
       

Exit Ticket: Your Fair Move

Name: _____________________________

Date: _____________________________

Directions: Think about what we discussed today regarding bias and fairness.

What is one specific thing you will try to do or say to "Choose Fairness" in your interactions with others, either today or this week?

(Example: "I will ask my friends what roles they want in a group project instead of assuming who is good at what.")