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Author's Purpose & Text Structure

Grade 2 · Stretch challenge · 8 questions · Version PG-1Y4IXCU-NLIB

1.

Some seeds travel on fur, while others float on wind or water. Each method spreads seeds. What is the author's main purpose?

2.

Weather can change in hours, but climate describes patterns measured over many years. How is this text mainly organized?

3.

The class tested paper towels using equal water, measured each result, and recorded the data. What is the author's main purpose?

4.

A pond is smaller than a lake, but both are freshwater habitats that support living things. How is this text mainly organized?

5.

A pond is smaller than a lake, but both are freshwater habitats that support living things. What is the author's main purpose?

6.

The council compared three playground plans for cost, safety, and accessibility before voting. How is this text mainly organized?

7.

During winter, a fox grows a thicker coat. The extra fur traps air and helps it stay warm. How is this text mainly organized?

8.

Mina read two reports about one event. She checked their sources before trusting the details. What is the author's main purpose?

Answers and teaching notes

Use the answers to check the work after the learner finishes. For writing prompts, the guide describes what a strong response should include.

Show answers for version 7
  1. Some seeds travel on fur, while others float on wind or water. Each method spreads seeds. What is the author's main purpose?To compare methods of seed dispersal
  2. Weather can change in hours, but climate describes patterns measured over many years. How is this text mainly organized?Compare and contrast
  3. The class tested paper towels using equal water, measured each result, and recorded the data. What is the author's main purpose?To describe a fair test
  4. A pond is smaller than a lake, but both are freshwater habitats that support living things. How is this text mainly organized?Compare and contrast
  5. A pond is smaller than a lake, but both are freshwater habitats that support living things. What is the author's main purpose?To compare ponds and lakes
  6. The council compared three playground plans for cost, safety, and accessibility before voting. How is this text mainly organized?Sequence
  7. During winter, a fox grows a thicker coat. The extra fur traps air and helps it stay warm. How is this text mainly organized?Cause and effect
  8. Mina read two reports about one event. She checked their sources before trusting the details. What is the author's main purpose?To show how Mina evaluated information

Worked example

Use the author's choices and relationships between ideas to identify purpose and organization.

Common mistake

Choosing a structure from one transition word alone.

Helpful hint

Summarize how ideas relate across the whole passage.