MAP 4th Grade Reading

A comprehensive subject designed to help 4th graders master reading skills assessed on the MAP test, including comprehension, vocabulary, and critical thinking.

Reading ComprehensionVocabulary in ContextIdentifying Text Features
Drawing InferencesAnalyzing Author’s PurposeComparing and Contrasting Texts
Reading in Everyday LifeUsing Critical Thinking While ReadingBuilding Reading Stamina
Answering Multiple Choice QuestionsManaging Test Time WiselyUsing Text Evidence
Reading Comprehensio...Vocabulary in Contex...Identifying Text Fea...Drawing InferencesAnalyzing Author’s P...Comparing and Contra...Reading in Everyday ...Using Critical Think...Building Reading Sta...Answering Multiple C...Managing Test Time W...Using Text Evidence
Advanced Topics

Analyzing Author’s Purpose

Figuring Out Why Authors Write

Every author writes with a purpose. It might be to inform, entertain, persuade, or explain something. Understanding the author's purpose helps you think critically about what you read.

Types of Purposes

  • To inform: Give facts or teach something new.
  • To entertain: Tell a story or make you laugh.
  • To persuade: Try to change your mind or get you to do something.
  • To explain: Show how something works.

How to Spot the Purpose

Look at the title, the first sentences, and the main idea. Ask yourself, "Why did the author write this?"

Real-World Uses

Knowing the author’s purpose helps you decide if something is a fact, opinion, or just for fun!

Examples

  • A commercial tries to convince you to buy a new toy. The author’s purpose is to persuade.

  • A funny comic strip makes you laugh. The author’s purpose is to entertain.

In a Nutshell

Analyzing author’s purpose means figuring out why the author wrote the text.

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Comparing and Contrasting Texts