This author's purpose game was designed with 3rd through 5th graders in mind. There are 18 questions that students will read and then try to identify the purpose the author had in mind, to inform, persuade, or entertain. The cards can be printed front to back and then laminated. I use six of these games to split my class into 6 different groups. Included is a Snakes and Ladders board game with a March and St. Patrick's Day. If this author's purpose is taught in a different month than this, please use any old game board.

The rules I use:

1. Cards are placed with the Author's Purpose reading text face up.
2. The student reads the text and decides if the purpose is to inform, persuade, or entertain..
3. The student flips the card over to reveal the answer.
4. If the student is correct, then he/she gets to roll the dice and move a player's piece on the game board.
5. No roll if the answer is incorrect.
6. Challenge: If two students ever occupy the same space then a challenge is issued. I neutral player uses a math flashcard and asks the question. The student who responds the quickest keeps the spot while the other player moves back one.

NOTE: Depending on the time of year, I use different game boards.