Purpose
The author writes an article explaining how to cook spaghetti. What is the purpose?
Answer: To explain/inform
A children’s book with big pictures and simple words. Who is the audience?
Answer: Young children
A fable where a rabbit loses because he brags too much. What is the message?
Answer: Don’t be overconfident
“The Pen is Stronger”
History has shown that words can spark revolutions and shape nations. Speeches, letters, and books have started movements that changed the course of humanity. While weapons may silence a voice, the power of ideas continues to echo through generations.
What is the author’s purpose, audience, and message in this passage?
How does the author’s comparison of words to weapons help strengthen the message?
Purpose: To persuade readers to value the power of words and ideas
Audience: General readers, especially students and future leaders
Message: Words and ideas are more powerful and lasting than physical force
A story about a dragon and a brave knight. What is the purpose?
Answer: To entertain
A magazine article about the latest phone apps. Who is the audience?
Answer: Teenagers/young adults
An article about recycling that ends with 'Together, we can protect the Earth.' What is the message?
Answer: People should recycle to help the environment
“Bring Back School Arts Programs”
Across the country, schools are cutting art and music programs to save money. This is a mistake. Research shows that students involved in the arts score higher on tests, develop creativity, and gain confidence. We must protect the arts in schools, not eliminate them.
Purpose: To persuade readers to support arts programs in schools
Audience: School administrators, parents, and voters
Message: Arts programs are valuable and should not be cut
A letter urging parents to support a later school start time. What is the purpose?
Answer: To persuade
A research article filled with charts and data. Who is the audience?
Answer: Experts/professionals
A poem about courage that says, 'Fear is a shadow, but bravery is light.' What is the message?
Answer: True courage is facing fear
“The First Job”
Jamal’s hands shook as he handed his first customer their change at the grocery store. He worried he would make a mistake, but by the end of the day, he had bagged groceries, stocked shelves, and even helped an elderly woman carry her bags. Walking home, Jamal realized he felt proud of himself.
Answers:
Purpose: To entertain readers with a story about responsibility
Audience: Teens and young adults starting new experiences
Message: Taking on new challenges can build confidence and pride
An article listing the dangers of smoking. What is the purpose?
Answer: To warn/inform
An advertisement for retirement plans. Who is the audience?
Answer: Adults planning for the future
A story about a student who studies hard and earns a scholarship. What is the message?
Answer: Hard work pays off
“Wildfires in the West”
This summer, wildfires destroyed thousands of acres of forest across several western states. Dry conditions and strong winds made the fires spread quickly. Firefighters worked for weeks to control the flames, while communities organized shelters for displaced families. Experts warn that climate change will likely make wildfires more common in the future.
Purpose: To inform readers about recent wildfires and their effects
Audience: General public following the news
Message: Wildfires are dangerous, and climate change may increase their frequency
A speech given at a graduation ceremony. What is the purpose?
Answer: To inspire/ to inform
A guide for new teachers on classroom management. Who is the audience?
Answer: Teachers/educators
A speech that says, 'Never give up, even when the road is hard.' What is the message?
Answer: Perseverance leads to success
“Vote for Change”
Our voices matter. Too often, young people believe their votes won’t make a difference. But every election is decided by the people who show up. Imagine what we could accomplish if every young voter participated. Register, show up, and make your voice heard.
Answers:
Purpose: To persuade young people to vote
Audience: Young adults eligible to vote
Message: Voting is powerful and young people must participate to create change
“The Power of Sleep”
Scientists have found that teenagers who sleep at least eight hours each night are more focused, less stressed, and perform better in school. Unfortunately, many teens don’t get enough rest because of busy schedules and late-night screen time. Setting a consistent bedtime can improve health and learning.
Purpose: To inform readers about the importance of sleep
Audience: Teenagers and their parents
Message: Getting enough sleep is essential for good health and success