VS.

How to Tell the Difference

WHAT IS A FACT?
• A fact is a statement that is known, true
and can be proven.
TWO FEATURES OF FACTS
• A fact has evidence or proof.
• A fact can be proven.
LOCATE A FACT
• Dictionary
• Map
• Encyclopedia
• Website
• Reference Books
WHAT IS AN OPINION?
• An opinion is a statement that shows what a
person thinks, feels, or believes.
TWO FEATURES OF AN
OPINION
• An opinion has a personal belief, or a claim.
• An opinion cannot be proven.
How do you tell the
difference?
HOW DO YOU KNOW A FACT?

A statement is a FACT when you answer YES to

these questions:

EXAMPLE: WATER BOILS AT 212 °F.

• Is the statement true? YES

• Can the statement be proven? YES

HOW DO YOU KNOW AN OPINION?

A statement is an OPINION when you answer these

questions.

EXAMPLE:
AIR JORDANS ARE THE BEST SNEAKERS IN THE WORLD.

• Is it telling us that someone prefers Jordan sneakers?

Answer: YES

• Is it an opinion? Answer: YES

LOOK FOR SIGNAL WORDS!
Facts/Evidence Opinions/Claims

•On June 2 (specific date), •I think…

•In the year… •I believe…
•According to… •I feel…
•In the article, •In my opinion…
•The author states, •In my point of view…
•In the text, •People should…
Interactive Group Activity
INSTRUCTIONS:

1. First, read each statement aloud.

2. Then discuss with your group members:

• Is the statement a fact or an opinion?
• Justify your answer.

3. Finally, show your answer by holding up the Fact

or Opinion card.
YOU DECIDE — FACT OR OPINION
1% of the world’s water is drinkable.

Fact Opinion Go On
YOU DECIDE — FACT OR OPINION
Ethiopia is in Africa.

Fact Opinion Go On
YOU DECIDE — FACT OR OPINION
I think access to clean water should be a human right.

FAC
Opinion Go On
T
YOU DECIDE—FACT OR OPINION
I believe that everyone should have clean water.

Fact Opinion Go On
YOU DECIDE — FACT OR OPINION
In 1993, the United Nations declared March 22nd
World Water Day.

Fact Opinion Go On