An Analysis of Bias in 10 Children\u27s Books

Public schools in the United States are experiencing a demographic shift. The students are more diverse while the teaching force is 90% White. There is a cultural mismatch in the schools. One major problem is the bias between race, age, and gender in children’s books. Students need to see themselves reflected in their teachers but also in the books they read. Through this project I will analyze ten children’s books to detect bias. Using the Washington Models for the Evaluation of Bias (2009) I will look for patterns and biases used inside children’s books that are discrete or obvious. Recommendations will be made to teachers, parents, and librarians about purchasing and adopting children’s books that are inclusive of the student’s experiences. Students need to have empowering and helpful books that teach equality, respect and justice. Annotated bibliographies will be distributed so that other teachers can begin to conduct their own original research with respect to biases in existing instructional materials. Through this process, teachers can inch closer to becoming culturally competent