Author's Purpose
Who was the intended audience from based on "Mother Jones" activism?
Children, Young readers, Students.
"Although some believe we should focus on cutting taxes for the rich, I argue that we should invest in education, as it will help everyone in the long run."
Question: What is the claim being made in this argument?
We should invest in education instead of cutting taxes for the rich.
The athlete’s stamina helped her finish the race even when others were exhausted.
Question: What is a synonym for the word "stamina"?
Endurance, tirelessness, energy, grit, strength, etc.
"Sarah had never seen such a vast forest. The trees seemed to stretch on forever, their leaves swaying in the wind. Birds chirped, creating a peaceful melody."
Question: What is the main idea of this passage?
Sarah is amazed by the vast, peaceful forest.
"First, we will discuss the history of space exploration. Then, we will examine current missions. Finally, we will look ahead to future projects."
Question: What transition word signals the final point in the sequence?
"Finally"
The workers marched in protest, chanting slogans and waving signs. Their anger was palpable, but so was their hope for change."
Question: What is the point of view in this excerpt? How do you know?
Third-person, because the narrator is describing the actions and emotions of the workers.
"Shouldn't we do something to stop pollution before it's too late? After all, we only have one Earth."
Question: What is the rhetorical question trying to make the reader think about?
The importance of taking action to stop pollution.
The old castle stood ominous against the setting sun, casting long shadows over the empty field.
Question: What is the connotation of the word "ominous" in this sentence? Is this word positive or negative?
A sense of danger. Negative
"After hours of hiking, they reached the top of the mountain. They sat down, exhausted but proud, as they looked at the breathtaking view below."
Question: What can we infer about the hikers' feelings after reaching the top?
They feel proud and accomplished despite being tired.
"The event was not well-organized; nevertheless, the guests still enjoyed the evening."
Question: What transition word is used to show contrast in the sentence?
Nevertheless.
In the crowded city, people rushed past one another, oblivious to each other's presence, absorbed in their own worlds."
Question: What is the author’s purpose in describing the people as “oblivious” and “absorbed”?
To emphasize the disconnection of people to each other as they move in their own way.
"Some claim that technology is making us more disconnected, but I counter that it’s actually helping people stay connected across long distances."
Question: What is the counter-argument in this statement?
Technology helps people stay connected across long distances.
What is the denotation of the word "Labored?"
Something done with great difficulty or effort.
"Maria spent hours preparing for the presentation. When it was her turn to speak, she felt confident, having rehearsed every part of her speech."
Question: What can we infer about Maria's preparation for the presentation?
Maria practiced, which helped her feel confident.
"First, they gathered their supplies. Then, they set out on their journey, careful to follow the map. Finally, after several hours of travel, they arrived at their destination."
Question: What type of text structure is used in this passage?
Chronological Order meaning = Plot
"The soldier stood silently at the memorial, a single tear rolling down his cheek. He remembered the friends he had lost and the battles they had fought together."
Question: What is the author's purpose in showing the soldier's emotional reaction at the memorial?
To highlight the soldier’s grief and the emotional cost of war.
"While some argue that smartphones are a distraction, can we ignore how much they’ve improved communication and made information more accessible?"
Question: What is the rhetorical question meant to provoke?
To make the reader consider the positive aspects of smartphones despite the criticisms.
The arid desert had little water, making it difficult for plants to grow.
Question: Based on the sentence, what does the word "arid" most likely mean?
Dry or lacking water.
"The storm raged through the night, but by morning, the sun had returned, shining brightly on the peaceful village below. The damage was done, but the community began to rebuild."
Question: What is the summary of this passage?
The storm caused damage, but the community started rebuilding once the sun returned.
"The earthquake left widespread destruction across the city. Therefore, rescue teams were deployed immediately to search for survivors and provide aid."
Question: What transition word shows the cause and effect relationship in the sentence?
Therefore
"Every face was filled with anxiety, eyes darting nervously toward the door as they waited for the results."
Question: What is the author's purpose in using the description of the characters as "filled with anxiety"?
To highlight the tension and anticipation
People argue that social media causes more harm than good. But, can we really ignore how it connects people globally and provides a platform for important causes?"
Question: What is the claim in this passage?
Social media has benefits, such as connecting people and supporting important causes.
The hikers showed great resistance, refusing to turn back even when the storm intensified.
Question: What does the word "resistance" most likely NOT mean?
C) Cooperation
"The sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the barren desert. The air grew colder as night approached, and the only sound was the soft whisper of the wind."
Question: What can we infer about the setting of this passage?
calm and isolated or peaceful and deserted.
"On one hand, investing in renewable energy could reduce pollution. On the other hand, the cost of switching from fossil fuels is high."
Question: What transition words are used to present contrast in this excerpt?
"On one hand" AND "On the other hand"