Author's Purpose
What are the three main author’s purposes?
To inform, to persuade, and to entertain
First, gather your materials. Next, mix the ingredients together. Finally, place the mixture in the oven and bake for 30 minutes.
Chronological (sequence)
Homework allows students to practice skills taught in class and reinforces learning. In addition, completing assignments helps students develop responsibility and time-management skills.
Homework benefits students
After weeks of preparation, the debate team lost the competition but reflected on how much they had improved and how confident they felt speaking in front of others.
Growth is more important than winning
The author presents facts and statistics to support a claim about recycling.
Identifying author’s purpose
Last summer, I trained every day for a 5K race. At first, running even one mile felt impossible, but by the end of the summer, I crossed the finish line with pride.
To entertain
Rainforests receive heavy rainfall year-round, while deserts receive very little rain. Because of this, the plants and animals in these environments are very different.
Compare and contrast
Many schools have updated cafeteria menus to include healthier food options. These changes aim to improve student nutrition, increase energy levels, and support overall well-being throughout the school day.
Healthier school meals improve student health
The students ignored safety rules during a science lab experiment. As a result, an accident occurred that could have been prevented if instructions had been followed.
Rules help prevent negative consequences
The paragraph presents a main idea followed by multiple examples and explanations.
Controlling idea
Eating breakfast helps students stay focused during class. Studies show that students who eat breakfast perform better on tests and have more energy throughout the day.
To persuade
When temperatures drop below freezing, water in pipes can freeze and expand. As a result, pipes may crack or burst.
Cause and effect
Volunteering provides essential services to communities, such as tutoring or neighborhood cleanups. At the same time, volunteers gain valuable experience, build relationships, and develop leadership skills.
Volunteering benefits both communities and individuals
Although the project initially seemed overwhelming, the group succeeded by dividing responsibilities and supporting one another through challenges.
Teamwork leads to success
The author explains a problem and evaluates several possible solutions before recommending one.
Problem and solution
Wearing helmets while riding bikes greatly reduces the risk of head injuries. Parents and schools should encourage students to wear helmets every time they ride.
To persuade
Many students struggle with time management. One effective solution is using planners to track assignments and break large tasks into smaller steps.
Problem and solution
Online learning offers students flexibility and access to digital resources from anywhere. However, it can also lead to challenges such as limited peer interaction, increased distractions, and difficulty staying motivated.
Online learning has both benefits and challenges
After earning the award, the athlete thanked coaches, teammates, and family members for their guidance and encouragement throughout the season.
Success is supported by others
The lesson is implied through events and outcomes rather than stated directly.
Identifying the author’s message
Public transportation reduces traffic congestion, lowers pollution, and saves families money. Despite these benefits, many people still choose to drive alone. Cities must invest more in public transit if they want cleaner, more efficient communities.
👉 What is the author’s purpose? Explain which clues support your answer.
To persuade, "Cities must invest more in public transit..."
The text expresses several types of government systems, explains how each one functions, and provides examples from different countries.
Description / classification
The author explains how climate change affects weather patterns, wildlife habitats, agricultural production, and access to resources. These changes demonstrate that climate change influences many aspects of daily life across the world.
Climate change impacts many areas of life
The author describes several individuals who experienced failure, reflected on their mistakes, adjusted their strategies, and eventually reached their goals.
Perseverance and adaptability lead to success
The author compares two ideas, explains their effects, and ends with a recommendation for action.
Organizational style and author’s purpose