A schema is a mental framework that helps individuals organize and interpret information. It consists of a set of beliefs and expectations about a particular concept or category, allowing people to make sense of new experiences by relating them to what they already know. For example, a schema for dog might include characteristics like being furry, having four legs, and barking. Schemas can influence how we perceive and remember information. When we encounter new information, we often fit it into our existing schemas, which can lead to biases or misunderstandings. For instance, if someone has a schema that all birds can fly, they might struggle to understand that ostriches and penguins cannot.