English Reading Skills - Identifying Facts and Opinions
In a news article, there have been both facts and opinion mixed together. Readers have to closely identify them in order to understand the intention of authors.
What is fact?
Fact can be checked, proved or measured. Look at the fact sentences below.
- In 2010, Lionel Messi was named FIFA World Footballer of The Year. We can check these details by looking at FIFA records.
- Factories, office buildings and labor accommodation situated around Preecha Inter Food Co.,Ltd and a slaughter house at Prachatopat, Thanyaburi, Pathuntani will have been on lockdown for 14 days, according to the provincial order. We can check with the provincial order.
- Ackers means money. The meaning of this word can be proved by looking up the dictionary.
Examples of the language we use to express facts:
- This review has demonstrated…
- According to the results of the latest poll…
- The latest findings confirm…
- Researchers have recently discovered…
How about opinion?
An opinion is based on a belief, view, expectation, or assumption. It is not based on evidence that can be checked. The sentences below show opinion statements.
- Jakarta also said it was “deeply concerned” with growing violence in the country.
- The vaccines are here and the focus must now shift to the economy.
- A day earlier, Amarat Chokpamitkul was questioned over the etiquette after she had giggledduring the clarification of the premiere in the no-confidence debate.
Examples of the language we use to express opinions:
- The company claims that…
- The research team argues that…
- In Professor Donald’s view…
- Most experts in this field suspect that…
- Many people are questioning ...
Mixing fact and opinion
Writers often mix fact and opinion. It is not always easy to tell whether something is based on facts that can be checked or someone’s particular viewpoint. For this reason, it is important to read with a questioning mind. Just because someone says something is true – it doesn’t mean it is true. For instance, thirty-three people, 23 police and 10 protesters, were confirmed injured during Sunday's rally and 22 protesters were detained by police, leaving skeptic point whether the demonstration is peaceful.
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