Author's Purpose, Audience & Message (E11 U1)

(Excerpt 1) What was most likely Washington’s purpose for including this incident in his autobiography, or life story?

• To show that he began to value formal education only as an adult

• To show how the life of a child of slaves was different from that of white children

(Excerpt 1) Is Washington’s purpose for writing this passage stated or unstated?

• Stated

• Unstated

(Excerpt 1) Who is most likely Washington's target audience in this passage?

• Free people whom Washington wanted to educate regarding what slaves experienced

• Former slaves who had similar experiences and endured similar injustices

(Excerpt 1) What message is revealed in this passage based on the details Washington includes?

• Slaves were not allowed to get an education--even if they wanted one

• Education opportunities were available to all, but not everyone went to school

An author writes an editorial for a newspaper in which she explains that a plan to cut down a forest will threaten a species of bird. She then tells readers how they can help the bird before it becomes endangered. Which is more likely the author’s purpose for writing?

• To inform readers with basic facts about birds

• To persuade readers to act and help the bird

An author presents his research findings in an article published in a major national newspaper. His research shows that a city’s water supply contains dangerous pollutants. Who is more likely the author’s target audience?

• The city's residents

• The author's fellow scientists

An author describes his experiences shopping at large corporate box stores, which he calls “soulless and impersonal.” He contrasts his negative experiences there with the positive experiences he has shopping at local, family-owned small businesses, where, he says, “they know your name and treat you like family.” Which of the following is more likely the author’s message?

• Large box stores offer more choices

• Support local businesses

An author writes a magazine article about the variety of interesting architecture that can be seen when visiting New York City. Which answer choice shows the audience the article would appeal to?

• Readers interested in architecture

• Readers interested in visiting New York City

• Both

(Excerpt 2) Is Washington's purpose for writing this passage stated or unstated?

• Stated

• Unstated

(Excerpt 2) What message does Washington want readers to take from this excerpt?

• A person's name is not as important as how the person feels about themself

• Having a second name was an important step toward being recognized as a free person