Lesson 12: Determining Point of View

Lesson 12: Determining Point of View

Point of View

Did you ever read an article that tried to convince you to agree with the writer's ideas? If so, you may have noted that certain words were chosen to appeal to your emotions. The writer may have made different choices if the text were meant to inform or entertain, for example. After all, content is shaped by the author's purpose, or main reason for writing. Content is also shaped by the author's point of view, or feelings about a topic. The words and ideas used in a text provide important clues about an author's perspective. 

Open Ended

"What is the author's point of view about ice climbing? What words, phrases, or sentences reveal this viewpoint?"

Multiple Choice

What is Chris Lau's point of view about ice climbing?

• He admires the bravery of people who participate in the sport

• He strongly encourages people to get the proper equipment and training before trying ice climbing.

• He questions the wisdom of people who think the thrill of ice climbing is worth the dangers.

• He downplays the high costs and serious risks of the sport.

Multiple Choice

With which statement would the author most likely agree?

• Interest in extreme sports comes from people's need for excitement and adventure.

• Extreme sports are dangerous only for people who are not physically fit.

• Whitewater rafting is more exciting and more unpredictable than bungee jumping.

• People who are thrill-seekers must be willing to prepare themselves for exhaustion and hard work.

Multiple Choice

Which sentence from the essay best shows the author's point of view about whitewater rafting?

• "The raft is an inflatable boat designed to float down a rapidly flowing river."

• "Split decisions must be made as rushing water shoots the raft past boulders, towards hidden snags, and over waterfalls."

• "Still, rafting provides thrills at every turn and a wild ride!"

• "Controlling a raft's course can be exhausting."

Open Ended

What is the author's point of view toward extreme sports? Include at least two details from the essay to support your answer.