Reading: Recognizing Author's Tone, Purpose & Attitude
B1 Lesson 1: Identifying the Author's Main Purpose
Listen to the examples in this lesson.
Before You Read 🧠
Key Vocabulary (Click 🔊)
Let's learn these important words for today's lesson.
What is Author's Purpose?
When you read, always ask this question: "Why did the author write this?" The answer is the author's purpose. They want the reader to do, think, or feel something.
The three main purposes are easy to remember with the word PIE:
To make you agree with an opinion or take an action.
To give you facts, teach you how to do something, or explain a topic.
To tell you a story or make you feel emotions (happy, sad, scared).
Spotting the Clues: Reading Examples
Let's look at three short passages. Read them and guess the purpose.
Purpose: TO INFORM
The Mekong River is the longest river in Southeast Asia. It flows through six countries: China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. It is a vital source of fish and water for millions of people.
Purpose: TO PERSUADE
You should visit Kampot! It is the most beautiful province in Cambodia. You must try the famous Kampot pepper and the fresh seafood. Don't wait—book your trip today!
Purpose: TO ENTERTAIN
Sophea looked at the clock. The bus was late again. Suddenly, she heard a strange noise behind her. She turned around slowly, her heart pounding in her chest.
Practice What You Learned 🎯
Quiz: What is the Author's Purpose?
Read the passages below and choose the author's main purpose. Click "Check Answers" when you're done.
1. "How to Make the Best Fish Amok: First, you need fresh lemongrass, galangal, and turmeric. Second, blend these spices into a smooth paste called 'kroeung'..."
2. "Our new 'Angkor Wat' t-shirt is the softest, most comfortable shirt you will ever own. It's made from 100% premium cotton. Don't wait! Buy one today and get 50% off."
3. "The old moto sputtered and coughed. 'Please,' Dara whispered, 'just one more kilometer.' He was lost in the countryside, and the sun was going down fast."
Key Vocabulary Reference (Click 🔊)
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Author
The person who writes a book, story, or article.
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Purpose
The reason why something is done or created.
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To Inform
To give someone facts or information.
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To Persuade
To make someone agree to do or believe something.
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To Entertain
To provide someone with amusement or enjoyment.
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Fact
Information that is true and can be proven.
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Opinion
A belief or feeling about something, not based on proof.
Your Reading Mission ⭐
Become a Purpose Detective!
- Find 3 different pieces of English text this week (e.g., a news story, a Facebook ad, a comic strip, a text from a friend).
- For each one, write down its main purpose: To Inform, To Persuade, or To Entertain.
- Write down the clue words or phrases that helped you decide. (e.g., "It used the word 'should', so it's 'To Persuade'." or "It told a story about a character, so it's 'To Entertain'.")