Frame of reference impacts how someone interprets and reacts to data. As an example, imagine why someone who was attacked by a dog as a child might fear going into a house with dogs, while someone without that experience looks forward to it. Likewise, someone who is involved in one political party might interpret data entirely differently than someone in the opposing party. Being able to anticipate someone's reaction to an event--and to realize how that reaction is shaped--is one big advantage of understanding frame of reference.

To learn about an author's or a speaker's frame of reference, you can conduct an online search about the person (or the news outlet they work for). You should find information about the person's background, where he or she attended college, and the types of opinions the person is known for sharing. Most recognized political writers and academic scholars have well-published backgrounds.

If you can, identify the writer's political affiliation, regular activities or experiences, and past publications. All of these elements factor into a person's frame of reference. For example, if the author is employed by a conservative newspaper, you might infer there is some bias in favor of conservative ideas. If you can identify where the author was educated, you might be able to draw some conclusions about the political atmosphere at that school.

Complete the section in your worksheet labeled Part 4: Analyze Frame of Reference. Be sure to save you work.