Author Purpose & Bias

What is the main reason an author writes a text?

• To inform, persuade, or explain

• To entertain only

• To make money

• To confuse the reader

Answer explanation

The main reason an author writes a text is to inform, persuade, or explain, which helps convey a message, share knowledge, or argue a point to the reader.

What does 'point of view' refer to in nonfiction texts?

• What the author thinks, feels, or believes about the topic

• The narrative perspective, such as first or third person

• The layout of the text on the page

• The historical context of the text

Answer explanation

In nonfiction texts, 'point of view' refers to what the author thinks, feels, or believes about the topic, making it the correct choice.

What is an example of a text with an explanatory purpose?

• A novel

• A how-to book

• A persuasive essay

• A poem

Answer explanation

A how-to book is an example of a text with an explanatory purpose as it provides step-by-step instructions or guidance on how to do something.

How can you determine an author's purpose?

• By asking the author directly

• By looking at the book cover

• By guessing based on the title

• By reading the text actively and reflecting on it

Answer explanation

By reading the text actively and reflecting on it

What is bias in writing?

• A neutral viewpoint

• Using only facts and no opinions

• A balanced argument

• A leaning towards one viewpoint over another

Answer explanation

Bias in writing refers to a leaning towards one viewpoint over another, showing partiality or favoritism towards a specific perspective.

What type of text structure might indicate a persuasive purpose?

• Compare and contrast

• Descriptive

• Problem-solution

• Chronological

Answer explanation

The text structure of 'Problem-solution' often indicates a persuasive purpose by presenting a problem and proposing a solution, aiming to convince the audience of a particular viewpoint or course of action.

What is NOT a way to determine an author's point of view?

• Checking the text features

• Reflecting on why the author shared certain information

• Looking at the structure of the text

• Guessing based on the title alone

Answer explanation

Guessing based on the title alone is not a reliable way to determine an author's point of view as titles can be misleading or not fully representative of the content.

What might an author with a persuasive purpose include in their text?

• Only facts and no opinions

• Facts and information that support their opinion

• A fictional story

• A step-by-step guide

Answer explanation

An author with a persuasive purpose would include facts and information that support their opinion to convince the audience.

What does an informational text aim to do?

• Describe a process in detail

• Entertain the reader with a story

• Convince the reader of a viewpoint

• Teach the reader something

Answer explanation

An informational text aims to teach the reader something, providing factual information and knowledge.

What is a key feature to look for when identifying the author's main point?

• The book's back cover

• Bold words, charts, and graphs

• The number of pages

• The genre of the text

Answer explanation

The key feature to look for when identifying the author's main point is bold words, charts, and graphs, as they often highlight important information and key points within the text.