Informational Text, Reasons and Multiple Sources: Grade 5 Study Guide
Reading nonfiction well means asking how the author knows and what other sources say.
An author of informational text has a purpose: to inform, explain or persuade. Fifth graders identify which reasons and evidence support each point, and notice the structure (sequence, cause and effect, compare and contrast, problem and solution).
They also read several sources on one topic and combine the information. An eyewitness (primary) source is written by someone who was there. A secondary source is written afterwards by someone else.
Fact, opinion and evidence
A fact can be proven (The Moon orbits Earth). An opinion is a belief (The Moon is the most beautiful object in the sky). Good authors back claims with evidence: statistics, examples, quotations from experts and observations. Ask: Where did this come from? Is it up to date? Does the author gain from my agreeing?
| Source type | Example | Strength |
|---|---|---|
| Primary | a diary, photograph, interview | first-hand view |
| Secondary | a textbook, encyclopedia | overview and context |
| Website | museum, library, news | check the author and date |
Comparing two accounts
Two authors can write about the same event differently. One account of a storm may focus on the damage and the other on the rescue. Compare the facts both give, what only one includes and how the author's viewpoint shapes the words used.
Note the main idea of each.
What do both say?
What is only in one?
Think about purpose and viewpoint.
Combining information
To write or speak about a topic, collect notes from at least two sources and put the ideas into your own words. Use a graphic organizer: topic, source 1 facts, source 2 facts and a summary. Never copy sentences; paraphrase and name your sources. Features such as maps, charts and timelines give extra detail, so read them as carefully as the paragraphs.
Worked example and common mistakes
Example: A diary entry and a textbook both describe a pioneer wagon trip. The diary shows daily hardships; the textbook gives dates and numbers. Common mistakes: treating every website as equally reliable, copying text word for word and ignoring graphs and captions. Check the author and the date.
Check your understanding: model answers
1. An opinion. 2. Primary. 3. For example, cause and effect, and compare and contrast.
✨ Key Takeaways
- Authors have a purpose and use evidence.
- Primary and secondary sources both help.
- Compare accounts by facts and viewpoint.
- Paraphrase and name your sources.
💬 Questions for Discussion & Reflection
- Is 'Soccer is the best sport' a fact or an opinion?
- Is a diary a primary or secondary source?
- Name two text structures.