Point of View Basics
What does “point of view” mean in a story?
The perspective from which the story is told.
“I couldn’t believe my eyes when I opened the box.” What POV is this?
First person.
What is the central idea of a text?
The main point or most important message the author wants to get across.
What are supporting details?
Facts, examples, or explanations that back up the central idea.
What is the first step in the writing process?
Prewriting (brainstorming, planning).
Which point of view uses “I” and “me”?
First person.
"You walk into the room and notice it’s dark and cold.” What POV?
Second person.
Where can you often find the central idea in nonfiction?
In the introduction or conclusion.
A central idea is that “reading helps students succeed.” What’s one possible supporting detail?
Reading builds vocabulary and comprehension.
What does revising mean?
Improving ideas, organization, and word choice in writing.
Which point of view knows the thoughts and feelings of all characters?
Third person
“He watched her leave, but she didn’t know he was there.” What POV?
Third person.
Why is it important to be able to identify the central idea?
It helps readers understand the overall message.
Why is it important to include supporting details when writing?
They make the central idea stronger and clearer.
What does editing mean?
Fixing grammar, spelling, and punctuation mistakes.
Which point of view directly addresses the reader using “you”?
Second person.
Rewrite this sentence in first person: “She ran across the street as fast as she could.”
I ran across the street as fast as I could.”
What’s the central idea? “Exercise has many benefits, including improving mood, building strength, and helping you sleep.”
Exercise is important because it benefits your body and mind.
Identify the supporting detail: “Rainforests are important because they produce oxygen, provide homes for wildlife, and help regulate the climate.”
They produce oxygen, provide homes for wildlife, and help regulate climate.
Why is drafting important?
It gets your ideas on paper so you can improve them later.
Why does point of view matter in a story?
It shapes how the reader experiences and understands events.
What pronouns are used in first person and third person?
First person - I, me, we
Third person - She, he, they, character names
How is central idea different from a topic?
The topic is the subject (what it’s about), while the central idea is the main point about that subject.
What happens if a paragraph has a central idea but no supporting details?
The writing feels weak and the reader won’t be convinced or informed.
Put the writing process steps in order: Editing, Drafting, Prewriting, Publishing, Revising.
Prewriting → Drafting → Revising → Editing → Publishing.