FACT v. OPINION
Fact or Opinion?
It is a well known fact that pineapple on pizza is a crime against humanity.
Opinion. Pineapple on pizza is so good (my opinion). Just because someone says "It is a well known fact..." does not mean it is actually a fact.
(1)The tiny hummingbird hovered, its wings a blur. (2)It sipped nectar from the bright red flower. (3)Its long, thin beak was perfectly suited for this task.
Question: What detail shows the hummingbird's beak is adapted for its food?
Sentence 3: Its long, thin beak was perfectly suited for this task
What text structure presents events in the order they happened?
Answer: Chronological order
What is the term for the author's word choice?
Answer: Diction
What does it mean to 'infer'?
Answer: To draw a conclusion based on evidence.
This type of statement can be proven with evidence.
Answer: A fact
(1)Rain fell in sheets, and the wind howled. (2)The old oak tree swayed, its branches creaking. (3)The power went out, plunging the town into darkness.
Question: What sentence tells us the weather was severe?
Sentence 1: Rain fell in sheets, and the wind howled.
What text structure shows the similarities and differences between two things?
Answer: Compare and contrast
What is the meaning of the word 'analyze'?
Answer: To examine closely
True or false: inferences are directly stated in the text.
Answer: False
Identify the opinion in the following sentence: 'Studies show that cats are more independent than dogs, but dogs are more loyal.'
Answer: Dogs are more loyal
(1)The ancient ruins stood on the hilltop. (2)Stones were scattered, but the walls still rose high.(3) People had lived here long ago. (4)The view of the valley was breathtaking.
Question: What detail proves the location was once inhabited?
Sentence 3: People had lived here long ago
If a text describes a problem and then offers solutions, what structure is it using?
Answer: Problem and solution
What is the definition of the word 'relevant'?
Answer: Closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand.
What is the difference between an inference and a prediction?
Answer: Inference is based on given facts, prediction is based on what might happen
Fact or Opinion?
Everyone knows that reading books is better for you than TV.
Opinion. Look at the way the statement is phrased, does "everyone know" this? You can't really say for sure, that makes the statement an opinion.
(1)The small town was known for its annual chili cook-off. The sign outside the community center read, 'Chili Fest: This Saturday! (2) Prizes for spiciest, most flavorful, and best vegetarian.' (3) Locals prepared their secret recipes for weeks
Question: What three categories of chili will prizes be awarded for at the cook-off?
Sentence 2: "Spiciest, most flavorful, and best vegetarian."
What are some visual cues we might see in an informational STAAR passage?
Answer: We may see pictures, charts, graphs, or diagrams.
When we are taking the STAAR what would we use "context clues" for?
Answer: We would use them as hints from the surrounding text that help clarify the meaning of a word.
Using the following paragraph, what can you infer about the authors feelings on global warming?
"The charts showed a steady rise in temperatures, year after year. The once-stable weather patterns now shifted erratically. 'We are seeing the consequences,' the speaker said, voice low, 'and we must act now."
Acceptable Answers:
Explain why a statistical number from a study, is often considered a fact. (Example: Studies show that 30 percent of students bring their lunch from home.)
Answer: It is able to be verified by scientific research
(1)The scientist carefully mixed the two liquids. (2)A puff of smoke rose from the beaker. (3)The experiment was working. (4)Bubbles began to form.
Question: What evidence shows the experiment had a reaction?
Sentence 2: A puff of smoke rose from the beaker.
Describe how to identify a description text structure. (Hint: What kind of words would they use?)
Answer: Uses many descriptive words, and paints a picture in the readers mind
Explain why understanding academic vocabulary (The vocabulary we used in our warm-ups) is important for reading comprehension. What does it help us do?
Answer: It allows the reader to understand what they are reading
Explain why it is important to be able to make inferences when reading informational text. (One sentence answer, please)
Answer: it allows the reader to fully understand the text