Reading: Reading for Detail
B1 Lesson 3: Understanding Clearly Stated Arguments or Opinions
Reading for Opinions
So far, we have read texts that give facts and tell stories. But sometimes, a writer wants to share their opinion2 or persuade you to agree with them. This is called an argument1.
Today, we will learn to read for detail to find the writer's main opinion and the reasons4 they give to support it.
Part 1: Fact vs. Opinion
It is important to know the difference between a fact and an opinion.
| Fact | Opinion |
|---|---|
| A statement that can be proven true. | Someone's feeling, belief, or judgment. |
| Example: Kampot is a province in Cambodia. | Example: Kampot is the best province in Cambodia. |
Clue Words for Opinions: I think, I believe, in my opinion, best, worst, should.
Practice with an Opinion Text
Let's analyze this short article that gives an opinion.
The Best Way to See Kampot
In my opinion, the best way to explore Kampot town is by bicycle. First of all, it is much cheaper than renting a moto or taking a tuk-tuk. You can rent a good bicycle for only a dollar or two for the entire day. Another reason is that you get good exercise and stay healthy while you sightsee. Finally, riding a bicycle allows you to go slowly and notice small, beautiful details, like a hidden cafe or an old building, that you might miss in a fast vehicle.
Let's analyze the argument:
- Main Argument (Opinion): The author clearly states it in the first sentence: "the best way to explore Kampot town is by bicycle."
- Supporting Reason 1: It is cheaper.
- Supporting Reason 2: You get good exercise.
- Supporting Reason 3: You can go slowly and see more details.
Your Turn to Understand an Argument!
Practice Quiz
Read this short opinion text, then answer the questions.
"I believe that iced coffee is the perfect drink for the weather in Kampot. One reason is that it is incredibly refreshing on a hot and humid day. The cold drink helps to cool you down immediately. Another reason is that it gives you a great boost of energy to help you walk around and explore the town. It's simply the most satisfying drink for a warm afternoon."
1. What is the author's main opinion?
- A. The weather in Kampot is hot and humid.
- B. Iced coffee gives you a boost of energy.
- C. Iced coffee is the perfect drink for Kampot's weather.
Answer: C. This is the main argument. A and B are reasons that support this opinion.
2. Which of these is a SUPPORTING REASON mentioned in the text?
- A. It is very cheap to buy.
- B. It helps to cool you down on a hot day.
- C. It is better than hot coffee.
Answer: B. The text directly states that the cold drink helps to cool you down. A and C are not mentioned.
Vocabulary Glossary
-
Argument (noun)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: ទឡ្ហីករណ៍
A statement or opinion that a writer tries to support with reasons. ↩ back to text -
Opinion (noun)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: មតិ
A person's belief, feeling, or judgment. It cannot be proven true or false. ↩ back to text -
Fact (noun)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: ការពិត
A piece of information that can be proven to be true. ↩ back to text -
Reason (noun)
ភាសាខ្មែរ: ហេតុផល
An explanation that tells *why* someone has an opinion. ↩ back to text
Homework Task
State Your Own Opinion!
Think about a topic you have a strong opinion about. For example: Your favorite food, the best place to visit, or why a certain activity is fun.
- Write one sentence that states your main opinion. Start with "I think..." or "In my opinion...".
- Write two sentences that give clear reasons to support your opinion. Start with "One reason is..." and "Another reason is...".