Which of the following best explains how algorithms can contribute to users encountering more extreme content on social media platforms?

Algorithms prioritize engagement, regardless of the nature of the content, potentially leading to the promotion of extreme content that elicits strong reactions.

According to the video, what is a key implication of the algorithm's function in determining the content users encounter?

It significantly shapes users' perspectives by controlling not only what they see, but also what viewpoints they are *not* exposed to.

In the video, the 'sorting machine' analogy is used to explain how algorithms categorize users. Which of the following best describes what this 'sorting machine' represents?

Algorithms grouping users and making assumptions based on those groupings.

Social Media Bias Lesson Plan for 12th Grade

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Objective

I can evaluate how algorithms and user interactions can create bias in social media content.

Part 1 of 4

Warm-up video

CBC Kids News · 3:02Vetted channel

We don't generate video — this one is by CBC Kids News on YouTube. The practice questions and exit ticket below were drafted by AI for this objective, and every question is editable in the teacher guide.

Part 2 of 4

Key concepts

3 concepts

1
Social media algorithms use a series of instructions to decide what you see and in what order.
2
Algorithms are designed to meet particular goals, such as keeping you on a site longer or encouraging you to engage with content.
3
Algorithms can sort users into different buckets, making assumptions about who you are based on your online activity.

Part 3 of 4

Practice

11 questions

Which of the following best defines 'algorithm' as it relates to social media platforms?

According to the video, what is the primary goal of social media algorithms?

Part 4 of 4

Exit ticket

Quick comprehension check

“Describe a specific way a social media algorithm can create bias in the content a user sees, and explain how a user's interaction (like, share, comment) can reinforce this bias.”

Sample answer included in the free materials

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Social Media Bias