Are these 2nd grade reading worksheets free to print?

Yes. All 6 printable versions on this page are free to download and print, with no account needed.

Grade 2 Author's Purpose Worksheet

About this worksheet

Author's purpose asks why a writer wrote a text. In second grade, students usually work with three broad purposes: to inform, to entertain, and to persuade or give an opinion. The challenge is that a text can be interesting and still mainly inform, or it can include facts while still trying to convince the reader. This worksheet uses short passages and purpose statements so children practice matching the text to the writer's goal. Students choose the purpose, identify clues, and separate fact-filled explanations from story events and opinions. Encourage your child to ask what the author wants the reader to learn, feel, or do after reading. Watch for children choosing entertain just because they liked the passage, even when the details are teaching information. This keeps the focus on the writer's goal, not a favorite detail. Students should point to wording that shows the purpose.

What your child will learn

Identify why an author wrote a passage
Tell informative purpose from entertainment
Use clues to support a purpose answer
Recognize opinion or persuasive purpose

Worked example

A passage explaining how a rain gauge is used is mostly written to inform, even if the topic is interesting.

Common mistake

Choosing entertain for every passage that is enjoyable to read.

Helpful hint

Ask what the author wants the reader to learn, feel, or do.

Characters, Setting, and Events Fact and Opinion

Questions parents ask

What is the most common mistake with author's purpose?: Choosing entertain for every passage that is enjoyable to read.
How can I help my child with author's purpose?: Ask what the author wants the reader to learn, feel, or do.
Are these 2nd grade reading worksheets free to print?: Yes. All 6 printable versions on this page are free to download and print, with no account needed.