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Author's Purpose & Text Structure

Grade 2 · On-level practice · 8 questions · Version PG-1T2W226-KT97

Children investigate a leaf and a frog with a caregiver beside a pond.
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.

The class tested paper towels using equal water, measured each result, and recorded the data. How is this text mainly organized?

3.

Warm ocean water adds energy to tropical storms. Cooler water usually weakens them. 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.

Weather can change in hours, but climate describes patterns measured over many years. What is the author's main purpose?

6.

Some seeds travel on fur, while others float on wind or water. Each method spreads seeds. How is this text mainly organized?

7.

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

8.

Warm ocean water adds energy to tropical storms. Cooler water usually weakens them. How is this text mainly organized?

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 12
  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. The class tested paper towels using equal water, measured each result, and recorded the data. How is this text mainly organized?Sequence
  3. Warm ocean water adds energy to tropical storms. Cooler water usually weakens them. What is the author's main purpose?To explain how ocean temperature affects storms
  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. Weather can change in hours, but climate describes patterns measured over many years. What is the author's main purpose?To explain the difference between weather and climate
  6. Some seeds travel on fur, while others float on wind or water. Each method spreads seeds. How is this text mainly organized?Compare and contrast
  7. 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
  8. Warm ocean water adds energy to tropical storms. Cooler water usually weakens them. How is this text mainly organized?Cause and effect

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.