ACCUPLACER Reading Comprehension

ACCUPLACER Reading Comprehension assesses students' ability to understand and analyze written texts across various genres.

Understanding Main IdeasRecognizing Supporting DetailsMaking Inferences
Analyzing Author’s Purpose and ToneInterpreting Figurative LanguageEvaluating Arguments and Evidence
Reading Everyday TextsComprehending Academic TextsInterpreting Digital Media
Active Reading TechniquesTime Management During the Test
Understanding Main I...Recognizing Supporti...Making InferencesAnalyzing Author’s P...Interpreting Figurat...Evaluating Arguments...Reading Everyday Tex...Comprehending Academ...Interpreting Digital...Active Reading Techn...Time Management Duri...
Advanced Topics

Analyzing Author’s Purpose and Tone

What Is the Author’s Purpose?

The author’s purpose is the reason they wrote the text. It could be to inform, persuade, entertain, or explain something.

Identifying Tone

Tone is the author’s attitude toward the subject or audience. It can be serious, humorous, sarcastic, or enthusiastic.

Strategies for Analysis

  • Look for word choice and style.
  • Ask: Is the author trying to make me believe something, or just sharing information?
  • Notice emotional language or strong opinions.

Real-World Uses

Understanding purpose and tone helps you decide whether to trust a news source, or to recognize bias in advertisements or speeches.

Examples

  • A review uses lots of jokes and playful language—the tone is humorous.

  • A news article with neutral language and facts aims to inform.

In a Nutshell

Analyzing purpose and tone helps you understand the author’s motives and attitude.

Key Terms

Tone
The author’s attitude toward the subject or audience.
Bias
A preference or prejudice for or against something.
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Interpreting Figurative Language