ACT Reading: Author's Purpose 3

Question 1

A passage describes a coral reef using precise scientific terms and measurements. The author most likely wrote it to:

Accepted Answer

Inform readers about the reef

Answer

Precise terminology and measurements indicate an informational purpose.

Question 2

An author asks rhetorical questions like 'How long will we ignore this crisis?' to:

Accepted Answer

Engage readers and persuade them

Answer

Rhetorical questions are a persuasive device meant to prompt agreement.

Question 3

A short story includes witty dialogue and an ironic twist ending. The author's main purpose is to:

Accepted Answer

Entertain

Answer

Wit and an ironic twist serve to entertain the reader.

Question 4

When determining purpose, the tone of a passage helps because tone reveals:

Accepted Answer

The author's attitude toward the subject

Answer

Tone expresses the author's attitude, which points to intent.

Question 5

A passage that warns about the dangers of texting while driving and urges readers to stop is primarily:

Accepted Answer

Persuasive

Answer

Warning and urging behavior change is persuasive.

ACT Practice Test