ISEE Middle Level Reading Comprehension

This subject focuses on developing reading comprehension skills necessary for success on the ISEE Middle Level exam.

Understanding Main IdeasRecognizing Supporting DetailsMaking Inferences
Analyzing Author’s Purpose and ToneUnderstanding Vocabulary in ContextDistinguishing Fact from Opinion
Applying Reading Skills to Everyday LifeUsing Comprehension Strategies for Group ProjectsSolving Problems with Critical Reading
Previewing and SkimmingEliminating Wrong Answers
Understanding Main I...Recognizing Supporti...Making InferencesAnalyzing Author’s P...Understanding Vocabu...Distinguishing Fact ...Applying Reading Ski...Using Comprehension ...Solving Problems wit...Previewing and Skimm...Eliminating Wrong An...
Advanced Topics

Analyzing Author’s Purpose and Tone

Discovering Why and How Authors Write

The author’s purpose is the reason they wrote the passage. It could be to inform, entertain, persuade, or explain. The tone is the author’s attitude toward the subject—serious, playful, excited, or something else.

Finding Purpose

  • Look for clues in language: Words like "should" or "must" might mean the author wants to persuade.
  • Notice the structure: Is it a story (entertain) or full of facts (inform)?

Detecting Tone

  • Pay attention to word choice: Dramatic words may signal excitement.
  • Check for emotion: Is the passage funny, sad, or neutral?

Practice Tip

When you finish reading, ask yourself: "Why did the author write this, and how do they feel about it?"

Examples

  • A passage explaining how to bake cookies likely has an informative purpose and a friendly tone.

  • A story filled with playful language and jokes has a humorous tone.

In a Nutshell

Figure out why the author wrote the passage and how they feel about the topic.

Key Terms

Author’s Purpose
The reason an author writes: to inform, entertain, persuade, or explain.
Tone
The author’s attitude toward the subject.
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Understanding Vocabulary in Context