Analyzing Informational Text Flashcards

A student reads an article that states, 'Many experts agree that reading daily improves vocabulary.' Which question BEST evaluates this claim?

Answer: Which experts are cited, and what evidence supports this?

Evaluating a claim requires asking whether credible evidence and expert sources are identified to support it.

An informational text includes a bar graph showing annual rainfall over ten years. What does this graphic element PRIMARILY help the reader do?

Answer: Visualize changes in rainfall amounts over time

Bar graphs allow readers to quickly see and compare numerical data visually across a time span.

The word 'contagious' appears in a health article. A reader uses the surrounding sentences, which mention spreading illness between people, to figure out its meaning. This strategy is called:

Answer: Using context clues

Using nearby words and sentences to determine an unfamiliar word's meaning is the context clues strategy.

An author writes: 'Unlike wind energy, solar energy does not require any moving parts.' This sentence is BEST described as an example of:

Answer: Comparison

The word 'unlike' signals that the author is comparing two types of energy and noting a difference.

When an author presents only one side of an issue and uses emotional language, this is BEST described as:

Answer: Biased writing

Biased writing favors one perspective and often uses emotionally charged language rather than balanced, objective evidence.

A student is summarizing an informational article. Which piece of information should NOT be included in the summary?

Answer: A minor detail that is only mentioned once

Summaries include main ideas and key supporting points, not minor details mentioned briefly.

Which of the following is an example of a primary source?

Answer: A diary entry written by a Civil War soldier

A primary source is an original document or firsthand account, such as a diary written during the historical event.