What You Need to Know

Key Concept Diagram

Critical readers question who wrote a text, why they wrote it, and who it is for

Facts can be verified with evidence; opinions reflect the author's personal beliefs or feelings

A biased text presents only one viewpoint to manipulate the reader's thinking

Questioning the evidence behind claims helps readers make informed judgements

Key Vocabulary

Critical reading

Reading that involves questioning, analysing, and evaluating a text rather than just accepting it

Fact

A statement that can be proven true or false using evidence

Opinion

A personal belief or viewpoint that cannot be proven true or false

Credibility

The quality of being trusted and believed because of reliability and expertise

Knowledge Check

Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.

Question 1

Which statement is a FACT?

Australia became a federation on 1 January 1901. Summer is better than winter. Chocolate is the best ice cream flavour. Dogs are friendlier than cats.

Question 2

A website sells a weight-loss product and includes an article saying it is the most effective in the world. Why should you be cautious?

Articles on websites are always wrong The author has a financial interest in promoting the product — it may be biased The article is too long to read carefully Products are never effective

Question 3

"Most experts suggest eating more vegetables. However, studies are still ongoing." This text is best described as:

Clearly biased A personal opinion with no evidence Presenting a fact supported by evidence but acknowledging uncertainty An advertisement

Critical Reading