Every author writes for a reason. The author's purpose is WHY they wrote the text. When you read, ask yourself: "What does the author want me to think, feel, learn, or do?"
Remember PIE!
P
Persuade
To get you to agree, believe, or do something
I
Inform
To teach you facts or give information
E
Entertain
To make you smile, laugh, or enjoy reading
What Does Each Purpose Look Like?
Persuade (P)
"You should try our new breakfast cereal! It's the most delicious way to start your day. Kids who eat Crunchy Stars do better in school!"
Clue words: should, most delicious, better
Inform (I)
"The Statue of Liberty stands 305 feet tall. It was a gift from France and arrived in New York in 1885. Over 4 million people visit it each year."
Clue words: facts, dates, numbers
Entertain (E)
"Once upon a time, a tiny mouse named Max decided to challenge the biggest cat in town to a dancing contest. 'You'll never beat my fancy footwork!' squeaked Max."
Clue words: once upon a time, funny situation, dialogue
Sort It! Circle the Author's Purpose
Read each text and circle P (Persuade), I (Inform), or E (Entertain).
"Sharks can smell blood from 3 miles away. They have been on Earth for over 400 million years."
P
I
E
"Our school needs a new playground! The old one is rusty and unsafe. Please vote yes for the playground fund!"
P
I
E
"The frog wore a tiny crown and announced, 'I am the king of this pond!' All the ducks laughed so hard they fell over."
P
I
E
"Everyone should read for at least 20 minutes every day. Reading makes you smarter and helps you do better in school."
P
I
E
"The human body has 206 bones. The smallest bone is in your ear and is about the size of a grain of rice."
P
I
E
Your Turn! Read and Identify the Purpose
Passage: Have you ever tried pizza from Joe's Pizzeria? It's the best pizza in town! The cheese is perfectly melted, and the crust is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. You won't find better pizza anywhere. Stop by today and taste the difference!
1. What is the author's MAIN purpose for writing this passage?
2. Which words from the passage show the author's purpose?
3. What does the author want you to DO after reading?
Ask Yourself These Questions!
When you read, ask:
Is the author trying to change my mind about something? (Persuade)
Is the author teaching me facts I didn't know? (Inform)
Is the author telling a fun or funny story? (Entertain)
What does the author want me to think, feel, or do?
Remember!
PIE = Persuade, Inform, Entertain
The author's purpose is WHY the author wrote the text. Always look for clue words that help you figure out if the author wants to change your mind (P), teach you something (I), or make you smile (E)!