SELT Identifying a Writer's Purpose 3

Question 1

A health website states: 'Adults need 7–9 hours of sleep per night. Chronic sleep deprivation is linked to heart disease, obesity, and depression.' What is the purpose?

Accepted Answer

To inform readers about sleep health facts

Answer

To entertain with sleep-related anecdotes

Answer

To persuade readers to buy sleep aids

Answer

To instruct readers on how to fall asleep faster

Question 2

A charity's fundraising letter begins: 'Every $25 you give today provides clean water for a child for an entire year. Don't let another child go thirsty.' What is the purpose?

Accepted Answer

To persuade readers to donate money

Answer

To inform donors about global water statistics

Answer

To describe the charity's organizational history

Answer

To entertain with stories of children worldwide

Question 3

A cookbook author writes: 'Combine flour, butter, and sugar in a bowl. Mix until the texture resembles coarse breadcrumbs, then add cold water one tablespoon at a time.' What is the purpose?

Accepted Answer

To instruct readers how to prepare a pastry dough

Answer

To describe the cultural history of baking

Answer

To persuade readers to bake more often

Answer

To entertain readers with a baking adventure story

Question 4

A novelist writes: 'Rain hammered the cobblestones as Detective Marsh pushed open the creaking door, her heartbeat louder than her footsteps.' What is the primary purpose?

Accepted Answer

To entertain readers with a suspenseful scene

Answer

To inform readers about detective procedures

Answer

To persuade readers to fear rainy weather

Answer

To instruct readers on how to enter buildings safely

Question 5

A government public health flyer states: 'Wash your hands with soap for at least 20 seconds before eating and after using the restroom to prevent the spread of germs.' What is the purpose?

Accepted Answer

To inform and instruct the public on handwashing practices

Answer

To entertain readers with hygiene humor

Answer

To persuade readers to buy antibacterial soap

Answer

To describe the history of germ theory

Question 6

A film review concludes: 'Despite its stunning visuals, the plot is disjointed and the ending unsatisfying—save your money and stream something better.' What is the writer's purpose?

Accepted Answer

To evaluate the film and guide the reader's viewing choice

Answer

To summarize the film's entire plot for readers

Answer

To inform readers about the director's filmography

Answer

To entertain readers by retelling the movie

Question 7

An author opens an essay: 'I still remember the smell of my grandmother's kitchen—cinnamon and burned sugar—every time I think about belonging.' What is the primary purpose?

Accepted Answer

To reflect personally and engage the reader emotionally

Answer

To inform readers about the chemistry of cooking smells

Answer

To instruct readers on how to bake cinnamon treats

Answer

To persuade readers to visit their grandparents