Author's Purpose worksheet asking students to identify if texts are meant to inform, persuade, or entertain.

Let’s go through each item one by one and figure out the author’s purpose:
- Inform = gives facts or instructions (like a textbook or how-to guide)
- Persuade = tries to convince you of an opinion or action (like an argument or advertisement)
- Entertain = meant to be fun, funny, or engaging (like stories, jokes, or novels)

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1. A mystery novel.
→ Novels are usually written to entertain readers with a story.
→ *Answer: C*

2. A book about why people need a college degree.
→ This is trying to convince you that college is important — it’s making an argument.
→ *Answer: B*

3. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
→ This is a reference book used by professionals — full of facts and definitions.
→ *Answer: A*

4. An article about how to grow tomatoes.
→ It’s giving step-by-step instructions — factual info on gardening.
→ *Answer: A*

5. The novelization of a hit movie.
→ Even though it’s based on a movie, it’s still a story made for enjoyment.
→ *Answer: C*

6. A book of funny essays about teaching high school.
→ “Funny” tells us it’s meant to make you laugh or smile — entertainment.
→ *Answer: C*

7. A memoir written by a famous actress.
→ Memoirs tell personal life stories — often to share experiences in an engaging way. While some may inform or persuade, most memoirs aim to entertain or connect emotionally. Given the context here, “entertain” fits best unless specified otherwise.
→ *Answer: C*

8. A biography of Mother Teresa.
→ Biographies give factual accounts of someone’s life — they’re informative.
→ *Answer: A*

9. A book claiming that America is overmedicated.
→ The word “claiming” shows it’s taking a position and trying to convince you — persuasion.
→ *Answer: B*

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Final Answer:
1. C
2. B
3. A
4. A
5. C
6. C
7. C
8. A
9. B