How to Identify Informal Style and Bias in Writing

Identifying informal style and bias in writing is a crucial skill for students, especially when analyzing texts for academic purposes. Informal writing often uses casual language, slang, and personal opinions rather than objective facts. For example, phrases such as 'totally' and 'honestly' are indicative of an informal tone. Additionally, bias can be shown through subjective language that expresses opinions rather than neutral statements.

When analyzing a piece of writing, consider the following steps to determine its tone and potential bias:

1. **Look for Informal Language:** Informal writing may include colloquialisms, slang, and casual expressions. Words like 'cool' or 'awesome' are examples of informal language that may not be appropriate in academic writing.

2. **Identify Biased Statements:** Statements that present opinions as facts often reveal bias. For instance, saying 'anime is the best and most popular form of entertainment for teens' suggests a personal opinion rather than an objective analysis. It’s important to distinguish between what is factual and what is a subjective viewpoint.

3. **Assess the Audience:** Consider who the intended audience is. Informal writing often targets a specific group (like teenagers) and uses language that resonates with them. For example, the phrase 'I’m sure you can relate' speaks directly to a teenage audience, making the writing feel more personal and less formal.

4. **Rewrite in Formal Style:** Once you've identified informal elements and bias, practice rewriting the sentences in a more formal tone. For instance, instead of saying, 'Teens are totally drawn to Japanese anime,' you could say, 'Many teenagers are attracted to Japanese anime for various reasons.' This change not only elevates the language but also removes the bias present in the original statement.

5. **Provide Evidence:** In formal writing, it’s essential to back up opinions with evidence. Instead of making sweeping statements, include facts or statistics that support your claims. For example, you might mention that research indicates a significant percentage of teenagers engage with anime, which provides a more balanced view.

By mastering the ability to identify informal styles and biases, students can enhance their analytical skills and improve their own writing. This skill is particularly valuable in language arts classes, where critical thinking and the ability to express ideas clearly are essential for success. Remember, the goal is to communicate ideas effectively and respectfully, considering the audience and purpose of your writing.

In summary, recognizing informal style and bias is key in developing strong writing skills. With practice, students can learn to refine their writing style and present their ideas in a clear, formal manner, making their work more credible and impactful.