Fact and Opinion

Sometimes it is hard to tell the difference between sentences that are facts and sentences that are fiction. A FACT can be proven to be true. An OPINION is what someone believes -it cannot be proven true or false.

Deciding if a sentence is a Fact proofevidence If you can find proof, or evidence for a sentence, then it is a FACT.

Look at these sentences: 1. Rabbits are mammals. 2. George Washington was the first president of the United States. 3. The earth orbits the sun. 4. There are books in the library Can each of these statements be proven? Will everyone come up with the same or similar response?

Rabbits ARE Mammals You could look in a dictionary or encyclopedia, and find PROOF that the sentence states a fact.

You decide - Fact or Opinion Elephants have four legs.

You decide - Fact or Opinion Black is the best color for a dog.

You decide - Fact or Opinion Many people have dogs for pets.

Remember: A FACT can be proven to be true. An OPINION is what someone believes -it cannot be proven true or false.

NOW LET’S TRY IT: Formulate an opinion about school lunches! School lunches are_____. I believe this because______. School lunches taste_____.

Student Responses School lunches are good. I believe this because I’ve tasted the burrito. School lunches are amazing. I believe this because it has fruits and vegetables. School lunches are disgusting. I believe this because they always taste bad. School lunches are nasty. I believe this because the chocolate milk is bad for your health. School lunches taste bad. School lunches taste good. School lunches taste delicious!

LET’S TRY THIS: Formulate a fact about school lunches! School lunches are free to some students. I can prove this by looking it up in the office.

Student Responses School lunches are_____. I can prove this by____.