Author's Purpose Flashcards

An advertisement claims a cereal is "the best way to start your day!" What is the author's purpose?

Answer: To persuade

Ads use opinion-based claims to convince buyers.

A recipe lists ingredients and numbered cooking steps. The primary purpose is to:

Answer: Instruct

Step-by-step directions instruct the reader how to do something.

Which detail best signals that an author's purpose is to entertain?

Answer: A surprising plot twist

A plot twist is a storytelling device meant to amuse readers.

A news report states only verified facts about a flood without giving opinions. The purpose is to:

Answer: Inform

Reporting verified facts neutrally is informing.

An author writes an essay arguing that schools should start later. What text feature would best support this purpose?

Answer: Evidence and reasons

Persuasive essays rely on evidence and reasons to convince readers.

A poem uses rhythm and figurative language to share the poet's grief. The purpose is to:

Answer: Express feelings

Poetry about grief expresses the author's emotions.

If a passage both teaches facts and tries to change your opinion, the author may have:

Answer: More than one purpose

Texts can combine purposes, such as informing and persuading.