Fact and Opinion - Grade 2
Distinguishing between fact and opinion is a crucial skill for effective critical thinking, informed decision-making, understanding complex issues and navigating the vast amount of information (and misinformation) present in the modern world.
Activity 1
I can identify which sentences are facts and which are opinions.
Let's learn what the difference is between facts and opinions and how to identify them.
Activity 2
What are some words you should watch for to determine if something is an opinion?
best, worst, better, worse, most, beautiful, terrible, good, bad, worthwhile, worthless, favorite, too, believe, think, great, boring, all, always, never, usually, probably...
Let's read this story together and determine which sentences are facts or opinions.
Dogs are great pets. Many people agree that a dog is a wonderful companion. Dogs can be taught to do many things, like fetching a ball or sitting on command. The average lifespan of a dog is about 13 years.
Put your thumb up if it is a FACT .👍 Put your thumb down if it is an opinion. 👎
Explain why it is a fact or opinion.
1) Dogs can learn tricks.
2) A dog is the best pet in the world.
3) A dog's life is fun.
4) Dogs need food and water to live.
5) Dogs come in many different sizes.
6) Dogs are great pets.
7) Many people agree that a dog is a wonderful companion.
8) You should get a dog.
9) The average lifespan of a dog is 13 years.
10) Dogs have an exceptional sense of smell.
Activity 3
Read this short story then make a T-chart on a piece of paper and write facts on the left side and opinions on the right side based on the story.
Long ago, before tablets and computers, people played simple games. They played cards, checkers, and puzzles. But one day, scientists began to wonder, “What if a machine could play a game with you?”
So they started experimenting.
The first video game was very simple. It was a game where a tiny dot bounced back and forth. People thought it was amazing! Soon more games were made, like games where you hit a ball, or move a square around a screen.
Kids loved these new games. Adults were curious too. Some people said, “Video games are exciting!” Others said, “Video games are confusing.” But everyone agreed they were something new and different.
As time passed, video games became fancier. Game makers added color, music, and characters. People played games in arcades, where the machines stood in long rows and made lots of noise.
Then came game systems you could play at home. Families sat in front of the TV and played together. One kid might say, “I think video games are the best way to spend rainy days.”
Video games kept growing! Now you could explore new worlds, drive cars, or even talk to characters in the game. Some people said, “Video games help you think fast.” Others said, “Video games help me relax after school.”
Even though people had different ideas, video games were becoming more and more popular.
Today, video games are everywhere—on phones, tablets, computers, and big screens. People all over the world play them. Kids can play with friends who live far away. Grown-ups play too!
Some games teach math, reading, or science. Some games let you build worlds or solve mysteries. There are even games where you dance, jump, or move your whole body.
Many people have opinions about video games. Some think they are fun and creative. Others think they should be played only for a short time each day. But one thing is true: video games have changed a lot since that tiny dot bounced on the screen many years ago.
And who knows? Maybe you will invent the next great video game someday!
Activity 4
Write a short story that includes at least three facts and three opinions. See if one of your classmates can find the facts and opinions.
Answers
Activity 1: NA
Activity 2: 1) Fact 2) Opinion 3) Opinion 4) Fact 5) Fact 6) Opinion 7) Opinion 8) Opinion 9) Fact 10) Fact
Activity 3:
Opinions from the Story
“Video games are exciting!”
“Video games are confusing.”
“Video games are the best way to spend rainy days.”
“Video games help you think fast.”
“Video games help me relax after school.”
Before computers, people played simple games like cards and checkers.
Scientists experimented with early machines that could play games.
The first video games were simple, such as games with a bouncing dot.
Arcades had rows of loud video game machines.
Home video game systems came after arcade games.
Video games today can be played on phones, tablets, computers, and TVs.
Some games teach subjects like math, reading, or science.
People all over the world play video games.
Activity 4: Answers will vary