Reading: Critical Reading & Analysis (Introduction): B2 Lesson 1: Distinguishing Fact from Opinion and Identifying Supporting Evidence
CEFR Level: B2 (Upper Intermediate)
Target Reading Sub-skill: Critical Reading & Analysis (Introduction)
Specific Focus: Distinguishing Fact from Opinion and Identifying Supporting Evidence
What You Will Learn
By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:
- Clearly distinguish between statements of fact and statements of opinion in B2-level texts.
- Identify common ways authors express opinions (e.g., using specific vocabulary, modal verbs).
- Recognize different types of supporting evidence (e.g., facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions) used to support claims or opinions.
- Evaluate whether evidence effectively supports a given statement.
Hello Cambodian Learners!
When you read articles, especially those about current events or social issues – perhaps related to developments in Cambodia or global topics – it's very important to think critically. This means being able to tell the difference between what is a fact (something provable) and what is someone's opinion (their belief or feeling). It's also important to see what kind of evidence an author uses to support their ideas. This helps you decide how much you agree with what you're reading.
Fact vs. Opinion and Supporting Evidence
1. Fact vs. Opinion
A Fact is a statement that can be verified or proven true or false with objective evidence.
An Opinion is a statement that expresses a belief, feeling, attitude, or judgment. It cannot be proven true or false for everyone, though it can be supported by reasons or evidence.
Clues for Opinions:
- Signal words: I think, I believe, in my view, it seems, perhaps, should, must, good, bad, best, worst, beautiful, terrible.
- Adjectives that express judgment: amazing, awful, wonderful, boring.
2. Supporting Evidence
When authors make claims or state opinions, they often use supporting evidence to make their points stronger and more believable. Common types of evidence include:
- Facts: Verifiable pieces of information.
- Statistics: Numerical data (e.g., percentages, numbers).
- Examples: Specific instances or cases that illustrate a point.
- Expert Opinions/Quotes: Statements from people who are knowledgeable in a field.
- Anecdotes: Short personal stories (can be less strong as evidence but used for illustration).
The opinion is that regular exercise is beneficial. The supporting evidence includes a statistic ("reduce risk... by 30%") and an expert opinion (Dr. Sothy's statement).
Practice Time!
Activity 1: Is it a Fact or an Opinion?
Read each statement. Click "Fact" or "Opinion".
Activity 2: Identify Supporting Evidence
Read the short text. A claim or opinion is stated. Choose the option that provides the best supporting evidence for that claim from the text.
Quick Quiz!
Great Job!
Distinguishing facts from opinions and identifying how authors support their ideas are fundamental skills for critical reading. This will help you evaluate information more effectively!