Fact and Opinion — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
Paris is the prettiest capital in Europe.
Corrected: Paris is the capital of France.
The first sentence shares a viewpoint with 'prettiest,' while the second states a verifiable fact about France.
2. Fix the sentence:
Twelve times twelve equals a huge number.
Corrected: Twelve times twelve equals one hundred forty-four.
'Huge number' is an opinion word, but 144 is the proven product that any source will confirm.
3. Fix the sentence:
Water boils at the perfect temperature of 100 degrees Celsius.
Corrected: Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius at sea level.
'Perfect' adds a viewpoint, while the corrected sentence gives only the measurable scientific fact.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. A statement that can be proven with evidence is called a fact.
A fact is a statement supported by evidence from a reliable source.
2. A statement that shares a person's viewpoint is called an opinion.
An opinion expresses a perspective and may differ from person to person.
3. The capital of the United States is Washington, D.C., which is a fact.
Capital cities are documented facts that any encyclopedia can confirm.
4. Saying 'pizza tastes better than pasta' is an opinion because tastes vary.
Taste preferences are personal viewpoints, so this sentence is an opinion, not a fact.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Why is 'the Sun is a star' a fact and not an opinion?
Sample answer: It is a fact because scientists have studied the Sun and confirmed it is a star using evidence and trusted sources like astronomy books.
Facts are backed by evidence and can be verified, while opinions cannot be proven.
2. Give one math fact and explain how you could prove it.
Sample answer: Five plus five equals ten. I can prove it by counting ten objects or checking a math book that shows the same answer.
Math statements are facts when the result can be verified by counting or by a reliable source.