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:
Because LeBron James scored over 38,000 points, the claim 'he is the greatest player' is a fact.
Corrected: Although his point total is a fact, the claim 'he is the greatest player' is still an opinion.
'Greatest' compares values like skill and impact differently for different fans, so it stays opinion.
2. Fix the sentence:
The sentence 'Diwali is celebrated with lamps and fireworks' is an opinion because some families don't celebrate.
Corrected: The sentence 'Diwali is celebrated with lamps and fireworks' is a fact, since cultural records confirm the tradition.
Documented cultural practices are verifiable through reliable sources like encyclopedias and cultural histories.
3. Fix the sentence:
The classroom rule about raising hands is too strict, which is a fact about the policy.
Corrected: The classroom rule about raising hands exists as a fact, but calling it 'too strict' is an opinion.
Whether a rule is strict depends on personal expectations, while its existence can be verified.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. Independence Day in the United States is celebrated on July 4th, which is a verifiable fact.
Official holiday dates appear in laws and calendars, making them objective facts anyone can check.
2. Saying fireworks are the most beautiful part of any holiday is an opinion based on feelings.
Beauty rankings depend on personal preference, which varies widely and cannot be proven.
3. A student claiming homework helps her learn is sharing an opinion supported by personal experience.
Personal experience can support an opinion but does not make the claim universally true for all.
4. Serena Williams won 23 Grand Slam singles titles, a number recorded in tennis history.
Sports history records preserve verifiable totals, transforming championship counts into well-documented facts.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Rewrite this opinion as a fact: 'Halloween is the best holiday of the year.'
Sample answer: About 73 percent of American households gave out candy on Halloween in 2022, according to NRF surveys.
Verifiable participation numbers turn a personal favorite into a claim others can confirm.
2. Explain why 'recess should be longer' is an opinion, not a fact.
Sample answer: The word 'should' shows what someone wants, and people disagree about how much recess is enough.
Recommendations depend on values, while facts must be testable and agreed upon by all.