PARCC Author's Purpose 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A biography describes the life and achievements of a scientist using dates and facts. The author's purpose is to:
- Inform (Correct answer)
- Persuade
- Entertain
- Instruct
Correct answer: Inform
Factual life details inform readers about a person.
Question 2: An author writes, "You must recycle now to save our planet!" What is the tone signaling about purpose?
- Persuasive (Correct answer)
- Neutral
- Humorous
- Instructional only
Correct answer: Persuasive
An urgent call to action signals a persuasive purpose.
Question 3: Which type of text is most likely written mainly to entertain?
- A fantasy novel (Correct answer)
- A car manual
- A weather report
- A tax form
Correct answer: A fantasy novel
A fantasy novel is fiction created to amuse readers.
Question 4: A passage explains how to set up a tablet with clear labeled steps. Its purpose is to:
- Instruct (Correct answer)
- Persuade
- Entertain
- Express emotion
Correct answer: Instruct
Setup steps instruct the reader to complete a task.
Question 5: An author uses loaded words like "disgusting" and "shameful" in an article. This word choice most likely supports a purpose to:
- Persuade (Correct answer)
- Inform neutrally
- Instruct
- Entertain with humor
Correct answer: Persuade
Emotionally charged words push readers toward an opinion.
Question 6: Reading the title "Ten Reasons to Visit the Library" suggests the author's purpose is to:
- Persuade (Correct answer)
- Instruct step-by-step
- Express grief
- Report breaking news
Correct answer: Persuade
Listing reasons to do something aims to convince the reader.
Question 7: Which question best helps a reader determine an author's purpose?
- Why did the author write this? (Correct answer)
- How long is the text?
- What font is used?
- Who printed the book?
Correct answer: Why did the author write this?
Asking why the author wrote it reveals the purpose.
PARCC Author's Purpose 4
A biography describes the life and achievements of a scientist using dates and facts.
The author's purpose is to: