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Author's Purpose & Text Structure

Grade 5 · Stretch challenge · 8 questions · Version PG-1RHAFW9-XSZ0

Children investigate a leaf and a frog with a caregiver beside a pond.
1.

Engineers revised a bridge model after its center bent. They added supports and tested again. What is the author's main purpose?

2.

A budget lists expected income and expenses. Comparing them helps a family plan spending. How is this text mainly organized?

3.

A lever is a rigid bar that turns around a fixed point. Moving that point changes the effort needed. What is the author's main purpose?

4.

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

5.

City trees shade sidewalks, absorb rainwater, and provide shelter for birds and insects. What is the author's main purpose?

6.

Warm ocean water adds energy to tropical storms. Cooler water usually weakens them. What is the author's main purpose?

7.

Pollinators move pollen between flowers. Without this transfer, many plants make fewer fruits. How is this text mainly organized?

8.

Engineers revised a bridge model after its center bent. They added supports and tested again. 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 5
  1. Engineers revised a bridge model after its center bent. They added supports and tested again. What is the author's main purpose?To show how testing improves a design
  2. A budget lists expected income and expenses. Comparing them helps a family plan spending. How is this text mainly organized?Cause and effect
  3. A lever is a rigid bar that turns around a fixed point. Moving that point changes the effort needed. What is the author's main purpose?To explain how a lever works
  4. 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
  5. City trees shade sidewalks, absorb rainwater, and provide shelter for birds and insects. What is the author's main purpose?To explain benefits of city trees
  6. 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
  7. Pollinators move pollen between flowers. Without this transfer, many plants make fewer fruits. How is this text mainly organized?Cause and effect
  8. Engineers revised a bridge model after its center bent. They added supports and tested again. How is this text mainly organized?Problem and solution

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.