Reading: Critical Reading & Analysis (Introduction): B2 Lesson 1: Distinguishing Fact from Opinion and Identifying Supporting Evidence

Critical Reading

B2 Lesson 1: Fact vs. Opinion

Goal: Distinguish between things that are true/provable (Facts) and what someone believes/feels (Opinions).

1. Key Concepts

Fact ការពិត (Can be proven)

Opinion មតិ (Feeling/Belief)

Evidence ភស្តុតាង (Proof)

Prove បញ្ជាក់ (Show it is true)

2. The Fact Checker Test

Ask yourself: "Can I prove it?"

✅ FACT

• True for everyone.
• Uses numbers/dates.
• Can be checked.
"Water boils at 100°C."

💭 OPINION

• A personal feeling.
• Uses "Good", "Bad", "Best".
• Can change.
"Coffee tastes terrible."

3. Analyze the Text

Read the review. Notice the Facts and Opinions.

"The new smartphone was released on October 15th. It costs $800. In my view, it is too expensive for most students. The phone has three cameras on the back. I think the photos look beautiful."

Analysis:

• Fact: Released Oct 15 (Provable date).
• Opinion: Too expensive (Feeling about the price).
• Evidence: "Three cameras" supports the fact it is a modern phone.

4. Quick Check

1. "Cambodia is located in Southeast Asia." Fact (Provable location) Opinion (Personal feeling)

2. "Durian is the most delicious fruit in the world." Fact Opinion

3. Which word signals an opinion? "Best" "Year"