How Do I Know If Statements are Subjective or Objective?

Question

Answer

Let's establish a format to follow when observing to prevent as much bias as possible. The first thing to understand is how to document your observations, including documenting exactly what you see and hear. This means not to include any bias or opinions written into these observations. Objective observation equals just the facts.

A good example of this is:

Kimber put her sweater on her right arm first, then her left arm got caught in the hole where the head goes into. Kimber then asked the teacher for help.

This is a non-biased observation because there are no opinion words written. This is also a good example of an objective observation because it gives the exact details of what happened without opinion.

Then after you've written the objective observation, take the time to write your subjective observation. A subjective observation includes your opinions and assessments. Using the same example: 

Kimber showed determination and patience while trying to put her sweater on. She didn't get upset. This demonstrates that Kimberly's emotional control is age-appropriate.

Let's Practice - Subjective or Objective

Is it subjective or objective? Let's practice. Read the sentences below and identify if each sentence is objective or subjective.

1. Stephanie loved to hug her dolls.
2. Doni stayed in the block corner building with little blocks.
3. Samantha colored out of the lines after the teacher told her it is OK to do so.
4. Sandra screamed because she wanted to play also.
5. Lori stayed quiet and didn’t talk to anyone.
6. John likes it when the music is on.
7. Emanuel plays too many video games at home.

Now I will read them again with the answers.

1. Stephanie loved to hug her dolls. Writing what a child loves instead of what you see and hear makes this a subjective statement.
2. Doni stayed in the block corner building with little blocks. Writing exactly what you see and hear makes this an objective statement.
3. Samantha colored out of the lines after the teacher told her it is OK to do so. Writing exactly what you see and hear makes this an objective statement.
4. Sandra screamed because she wanted to play also. Writing "because she wanted" instead of exactly what you see and hear makes this a subjective statement.
5. Lori stayed quiet and didn't talk to anyone. Explaining what you see and hear makes this an objective statement.
6. John likes it when the music is on. Explaining what a child likes instead of exactly what you see and hear makes this a subjective statement.
7. Emmanuel plays too many video games at home. Stating "too many" instead of exactly what you see and hear makes this a subjective statement. 

This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Helping Children Learn Through Bias-Free Observation and Assessment, presented by Rebecca Reynolds, EdD.