1. Author’s Purpose Why do author’s write?

2. Why do Author’s Write? Author’s write for 4 main reasons Author’s write for 4 main reasons Describe, explain or inform: the author gives facts in an equal manner. If there are two sides the author let’s the reader choose after reading facts about both sides. Example - Nonfiction text Describe, explain or inform: the author gives facts in an equal manner. If there are two sides the author let’s the reader choose after reading facts about both sides. Example - Nonfiction text Persuade or Influence: the author wants the reader to agree with him/ her or to complete a task such as go vote or become a vegetarian. Example - Advertisement Persuade or Influence: the author wants the reader to agree with him/ her or to complete a task such as go vote or become a vegetarian. Example - Advertisement Entertain: the author wants the reader to enjoy reading. Most fictional writing is written with entertainment in mind. Example – Chapter Book or Comics Entertain: the author wants the reader to enjoy reading. Most fictional writing is written with entertainment in mind. Example – Chapter Book or Comics Express: the author just wants to pour out his heart or mind. Example - Journal entries Express: the author just wants to pour out his heart or mind. Example - Journal entries

3. Author’s Tone The author’s attitude about the selection. The author’s agreement or disagreement about the subject in the text. The author’s attitude about the selection. The author’s agreement or disagreement about the subject in the text. The attitude or tone can be one of the following: The attitude or tone can be one of the following: Positive – the writing shows good feelings about the topic. It is cheerful, happy, humorous, romantic, joyful, excited, proud, etc… Negative – the writing shows bad or sad feelings about the topic. It is shameful, sad, sarcastic, sad, heated, bored, fearful, hesitant etc… Neutral – the writing doesn’t show feelings one way or the other. The author does not choose any positive or negative words to avoid showing his/her feelings.

4. Words to Know Bias – when an author feels so strongly about a topic that he or she sees things from only one side. Bias – when an author feels so strongly about a topic that he or she sees things from only one side. Example: An older author will write with a negative tone when writing about young students because of his or her old fashion thoughts.

5. Words to Know con’t Propaganda – a form of speech or writing that tries to influence your thoughts by using emotion rather than logic. Propaganda – a form of speech or writing that tries to influence your thoughts by using emotion rather than logic.Examples: Oversimplifying: All it takes to save the Everglades from disappearing is money. Broad Statements: Today’s young people would rather play video games that read a good book. Unsupported Claims: I’ve never been to the Florida Key’s but it’s probably boring anyway Emotional Language: The Marlins are wonderful. When they play they are a pure joy to watch

6. Answering Author’s Purpose ?’s Look for the Main Idea of the text. Look for the Main Idea of the text. Think about the important details. Think about the important details. Notice the word choices to figure out the author’s tone (positive, negative, neutral) Notice the word choices to figure out the author’s tone (positive, negative, neutral) Figure out what the author wants you to feel, learn, think, or believe. Figure out what the author wants you to feel, learn, think, or believe. Did the author use bias or propaganda. Did the author use bias or propaganda. Did the author use facts or opinions Did the author use facts or opinions What is the author’s purpose for writing. What is the author’s purpose for writing.

7. Let’s Practice In September 1814, a brand new American flag was flying high about Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland. The flag was more than 40 feet wide and 30 feet high, with fifteen stars and stripes. In September 1814, a brand new American flag was flying high about Fort McHenry in Baltimore, Maryland. The flag was more than 40 feet wide and 30 feet high, with fifteen stars and stripes. 1. This selection is intended to A. amuse readers. B. sell a product to readers. C. arouse sympathy. D. describe a product.

8. Try our new product and you will be amazed at how quickly it brings relief from allergies. With one pill a day, you will be able to breathe freely again. No need to hide from nature any more with Natur-All. Just ask your doctor about it. 1. This selection is intended to A. amuse readers. B. sell a product to readers. C. arouse sympathy. D. inform readers.