Finding Evidence for the Author's Purpose

Back up your answer about purpose with clues from the text.

Naming the purpose is only half the job. You should also prove it with evidence from the text. Different purposes leave different clues. Persuasive texts use words like should, must, best, and you need to, plus reasons and calls to action. Informative texts use facts, numbers, definitions, headings, and diagrams, with a neutral tone.

Entertaining texts have characters, dialogue, humor, suspense, and vivid descriptions. Read: 'Every year, about 8 million tons of plastic enter the ocean. You can help by carrying a reusable bottle. Make the switch today!

' A strong answer sounds like this: 'The author's purpose is to persuade, because the text speaks directly to the reader with 'You can help' and ends with a command, 'Make the switch today! ' The fact about plastic is used as a reason to act. ' Clues plus explanation make your answer convincing.

• 1Prove the purpose with clues from the text.
• 2Each purpose leaves different clues.
• 3Explain how the clue shows the purpose.