Author's Purpose
If an author includes statistics at the end of an article, why might they do that?
To emphasize important facts.
“The storm caused damage, breaking windows and knocking down trees.”
What does damage most nearly mean?
Harm or destruction
What is the difference between a theme and a central idea?
Theme = life lesson, piece of advice, message
Central idea = summary of the story
After the new recycling rule began, the amount of trash collected each week dropped by 40%.
What can readers reasonably infer?
A. People stopped throwing things away completely.
B. The recycling rule likely reduced trash.
C. Trash collectors quit their jobs.
D. Recycling is expensive.
B. The recycling rule likely reduced trash.
Someone says, “The new rule is unfair.”
Why is this argument weak?
It does not include evidence or explanation.
Why would an author include quotes from two opposing groups?
To show multiple perspectives/both sides of something
“The principal’s speech was inspiring, and students left feeling motivated.”
What does inspiring most nearly mean?
Encouraging or motivating
Some schools are adding community service requirements. Supporters say it teaches responsibility. Others think it adds stress.
What is the central idea?
Schools are debating community service requirements because there are benefits and concerns.
The company spent $2 million on advertisements opposing the new law.
What can readers infer?
A. The company supports the law.
B. The company believes the law may hurt its business.
C. The law has already passed.
D. Advertisements are cheap.
B. The company believes the law may hurt its business.
Claim:
“The new rule reduced waste by 35% in its first year.”
What makes this argument strong?
It includes specific, measurable evidence.
Why might an author describe a problem using vivid details?
To create urgency or strong emotion.
“The plan was controversial, and many people argued about whether it was a good idea.”
What does controversial most nearly mean?
Causing disagreement
Which is the BEST summary of this?
A town added more streetlights. Crime decreased by 15%, but electricity costs increased.
The town added streetlights, which reduced crime but increased costs.
When the city added more streetlights, nighttime accidents decreased significantly.
What is the MOST reasonable inference?
A. Streetlights may have improved safety.
B. People stopped driving at night.
C. The city removed traffic laws.
D. Accidents only happen in the daytime.
A. Streetlights may have improved safety.
“We should not switch to reusable containers because plastic containers are more convenient.”
Which BEST evaluates this argument?
A. Strong because it considers cost
B. Weak because it focuses only on convenience and ignores other impacts
C. Strong because it includes statistics
D. Weak because it is emotional
B. Weak because it focuses only on convenience and ignores other impacts
Why end an article with a short section listing key numbers/facts/information (such as a graph or diagram)?
To emphasize important facts or teach the readers more about a topic
“The new rule may discourage students from bringing junk food because they could lose privileges.”
What does discourage most nearly mean?
To prevent or stop by warning
Which detail BEST supports the idea that a rule is effective?
A. Some people complained
B. It reduced accidents by 25%
C. It took months to pass
D. It was discussed at meetings
B. It reduced accidents by 25%
Some residents complained about the cost of reusable bags. However, most voters approved the new policy.
What can readers infer?
A. Everyone supported the policy.
B. Cost was not a concern for anyone.
C. Despite concerns, most voters supported the policy.
D. The policy was free.
C. Despite concerns, most voters supported the policy.
“According to a 2025 city report, traffic accidents decreased by 20% after the speed limit was lowered.”
Which BEST evaluates this argument?
A. Weak because it includes numbers
B. Strong because it uses relevant evidence from a source
C. Weak because it mentions traffic
D. Strong because it is emotional
B. Strong because it uses relevant evidence from a source
If an author introduces a related issue halfway through an article, what is the MOST likely reason?
A. To distract readers
B. To show the issue is part of a larger trend
C. To add random information
D. To change the topic completely
B. To show the issue is part of a larger trend
“The mayor called the proposal misguided, explaining that it would actually make traffic worse instead of better.”
Using context clues, what does misguided most nearly mean?
A. Expensive
B. Incorrect in reasoning
C. Popular
D. Complicated
B. Incorrect in reasoning
Many cities are limiting plastic straw use. Environmental groups say it protects wildlife. Some restaurant owners worry about added costs.
Give me a one-sentence central idea.
Cities are limiting plastic straws because of environmental concerns, though some businesses worry about costs.
The author presents quotes from environmental experts and also includes statements from business owners who oppose the policy. The author does not state a personal opinion.
What can readers infer about the author’s approach?
A. The author strongly supports the policy.
B. The author is presenting a balanced view.
C. The author disagrees with both sides.
D. The author is confused.
B. The author is presenting a balanced view.
“Banning single-use plastics will hurt the economy because some factories may close.”
Which BEST evaluates this argument?
A. Strong because it identifies a possible consequence, but it would be stronger with data.
B. Weak because it mentions the economy.
C. Strong because it is dramatic.
D. Weak because it expresses concern.
A. Strong because it identifies a possible consequence, but it would be stronger with data.