About This Worksheet
This worksheet gives students a more guided and supportive way to figure out author’s purpose by using a checklist. Instead of guessing, students are taught to look for clues in the text-just like a real detective would.
This is especially helpful for second graders who are still building confidence. The checklist slows them down and shows them exactly what to look for, like facts, dialogue, or opinion words.
It’s a great way to move students from guessing to thinking.
Curriculum and Grade Alignment
This worksheet supports Grade 2 author’s purpose skills and aligns with CCSS RI.2.6.
Student Tasks
Students read a passage, check clues that apply, and determine the author’s purpose.
Common Challenges and Misconceptions
Students may rush to pick an answer without using the checklist.
A helpful reminder is: “Use the clues first, then decide.”
Implementation Guidance
Model how to check each clue and connect it to the final answer.
Details and Features
This worksheet is structured to support step-by-step thinking, which is exactly what many students need at this level. The checklist provides clear guidance and reduces confusion by breaking the task into manageable parts. The passage includes a mix of clues that point strongly toward one purpose, helping students feel successful. The follow-up explanation question encourages students to justify their thinking, which strengthens both comprehension and communication skills. Over time, this structured approach helps students internalize the process and apply it independently.
Curriculum Overlap
Using evidence to determine purpose supports many skills.
- Builds reasoning and explanation skills
- Strengthens comprehension
- Supports writing with purpose
- Encourages careful reading habits