Author's Purpose - SSAT Middle Level Reading

1. Which option is the best purpose clue: a clear thesis plus reasons supported by evidence?

   Persuade. A thesis with evidence indicates intent to convince through logical support.

2. Which question best helps you identify author's purpose: "What does the author want the reader to think or do?"

   That question directly targets author's purpose. Asking what the author wants reveals the intended impact on readers' thoughts or actions.

3. What is the author's purpose when a passage reviews a book, film, or product and judges its quality?

   To evaluate (critique and judge). Reviews assess quality by critiquing elements to help readers form informed judgments.

4. What is the author's purpose when a passage describes a scene or experience to create a vivid impression?

   To describe (create a clear picture for the reader). Vivid details paint mental images to immerse readers in scenes or experiences.

5. Which purpose best fits a passage that uses strong emotional language and includes words such as "must" and "should"?

   To persuade (pressure agreement or action). Emotional appeals with imperative language pressure readers toward agreement or action.

6. Which purpose best fits a passage that uses humor, surprising events, and a playful tone?

   To entertain (amuse and engage). Humor and surprises captivate readers for amusement and lighthearted engagement.

7. Identify the author's likely purpose if the passage is an editorial arguing a policy should change.

   To persuade. Editorials advocate policy shifts to influence public opinion or action.

8. Which purpose best fits a passage that mainly uses dates, definitions, and neutral, textbook-like wording?

   To inform (present facts neutrally). Neutral facts and dates deliver information without bias or persuasion.

9. Which purpose best fits a passage that compares options and ends by recommending one choice?

   To evaluate (judge and recommend). Comparisons and recommendations aid readers in making informed decisions based on judgments.

10. Which option is the best purpose clue: headings, definitions, and explanations of causes and effects?

    Inform. Organizational elements like headings explain concepts factually and clearly.

11. Which option is the best purpose clue: commands such as "mix," "turn," and "do not touch"?

    Instruct. Imperative verbs direct readers in performing actions precisely.

12. What is the author's purpose when a passage warns about danger or urges caution about a risk?

    To warn (alert the reader to danger). Alerts to risks encourage readers to take precautions and avoid potential harm.

13. Which purpose best fits a passage that defines terms, gives background, and explains how something works?

    To inform (explain and clarify). Definitions and background clarify topics to enhance readers' knowledge objectively.

14. Which purpose best fits a passage that presents two sides and weighs strengths and weaknesses?

    To analyze (examine and weigh evidence). Balanced examination of evidence helps readers understand complexities and form reasoned conclusions.

15. What is the author's purpose when a passage honors a person or event with praise and admiration?

    To praise or tribute (celebrate and honor). Honoring with praise celebrates contributions to inspire admiration in readers.

16. Identify the author's likely purpose if the passage is a biography emphasizing achievements and admiration.

    To praise or tribute. Emphasizing achievements in biographies honors subjects to evoke admiration.

17. Which option is the best purpose clue: a plot with conflict, rising action, and a resolution?

    Entertain. Narrative structure with conflict and resolution engages readers for enjoyment.

18. What is the author's purpose when a passage tells a story with characters and events?

    To entertain (engage through storytelling). Storytelling with characters and events engages readers emotionally for enjoyment rather than instruction.

19. Identify the author's likely purpose if the passage is a public service message describing hazards and precautions.

    To warn. Public messages on hazards alert readers to promote safety awareness.

20. Which purpose best fits a passage that argues for change using reasons, examples, and a call to action?

    To persuade (advocate for a position or action). Arguments with reasons and calls to action motivate readers to support changes.

21. Identify the author's likely purpose if the passage is a scientific article explaining results and methods.

    To inform. Scientific articles detail methods and results to educate on findings objectively.

22. What is the author's purpose when a passage tries to convince the reader to agree or act?

    To persuade (influence beliefs or behavior). Attempts to convince through arguments seek to shape readers' opinions or prompt specific actions.

23. Which purpose best fits a passage that lists materials, then gives numbered steps and safety tips?

    To instruct (provide directions). Materials lists and steps provide practical guidance for task completion.

24. What is the author's purpose when a passage mainly explains facts or concepts objectively?

    To inform (provide information or explain a topic). Objective explanation of facts or concepts aims to educate readers without promoting a viewpoint or entertaining.

25. What is the author's purpose when a passage gives step-by-step directions to complete a task?

    To instruct (teach how to do something). Step-by-step directions guide readers in performing tasks effectively and safely.

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