Author's Purpose — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
An author writing to entertain would use a formal, factual tone.
Corrected: An author writing to entertain would use a fun, engaging tone with vivid descriptions.
The corrected sentence is: "An author writing to entertain would use a fun, engaging tone with vivid descriptions.". The original sentence "An author writing to entertain would use a formal, factual tone." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
2. Fix the sentence:
Strong opinion words like "must" and "best" signal that the author wants to inform.
Corrected: Strong opinion words like "must" and "best" signal that the author wants to persuade.
The corrected sentence is: "Strong opinion words like "must" and "best" signal that the author wants to persuade.". The original sentence "Strong opinion words like "must" and "best" signal that the author wants to inform." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
3. Fix the sentence:
Headings, diagrams, and glossaries are features used when the purpose is to entertain.
Corrected: Headings, diagrams, and glossaries are features used when the purpose is to inform.
The corrected sentence is: "Headings, diagrams, and glossaries are features used when the purpose is to inform.". The original sentence "Headings, diagrams, and glossaries are features used when the purpose is to entertain." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. When an author wants to persuade, they often use strong opinion words to convince the reader.
Persuasive writing uses opinion words (best, must, should) to convince the reader of a viewpoint.
2. An author writing to entertain might include dialogue, vivid descriptions, and humor.
Dialogue, vivid details, and humor are techniques used to engage and entertain readers.
3. Text features like charts, facts, and definitions show the author's purpose is to inform.
Charts, facts, and definitions are informational features that signal the author's goal is to teach the reader.
4. "She crept down the dark hallway, heart pounding..." The vivid description creates suspense to entertain the reader.
Vivid sensory details and tension-building language create suspense to engage readers.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. How would the word choice differ between an advertisement for a new toy and a science textbook about magnets? Explain which purpose each one has.
Sample answer: An advertisement uses exciting, persuasive words like "amazing" and "you need this" because its purpose is to persuade people to buy the toy. A science textbook uses precise, factual language like "magnetic force" because its purpose is to inform readers.
Purpose shapes word choice: persuasive texts use emotional/opinion language; informational texts use precise, objective language.
2. Read: "The solar system contains eight planets..." What is the author's purpose, and what clue in the writing tells you?
Sample answer: The author's purpose is to inform. The sentence states a specific fact using clear, objective language without opinions or emotional words — a clue that the author wants to teach the reader.
Factual, objective language with specific information signals the informational purpose.