In this lesson, you will learn to differentiate fact from opinion and to decide whether an opinion is substantiated or not. These are important reading and writing skills. Citizens of the twenty-first century are faced with many sources of information. For example, you might have followed the 2012 presidential election in newspapers and news magazines, on television or radio, or online. You might have received information and opinions via Facebook, Twitter, or a blog.

Not all information is equal, however. Some sources are more valid than others. Valid, justifiable sources are based on information that can be checked for accuracy. Such sources may include opinions, but the opinions are substantiated with evidence. You will learn more about substantiation of evidence in the third section of this lesson, “Substantiated and Unsubstantiated Opinions.”

You may have heard someone respond to a surprising or unlikely statement by saying, “Is that a fact?”

Which of the following statements is a fact that may be verified as accurate?

The first statement is factual. It is accurate and verifiable. The second statement expresses an opinion. To measure or verify “best” would be difficult, if not impossible. My opinion of which city is the best would probably differ with your opinion.

You may also have heard someone respond to a statement by saying, “Well, there’s room for debate on that.” That person means the statement is arguable or debatable. Which of the following statements may be debated or argued?

Wednesday is definitely the fourth day of the week, and it may feel like the longest day of the work (or school) week to some. However, others might argue that Monday or Friday feels like the longest day.

The first step to becoming a good twenty-first century reader is to acquire the ability to distinguish between fact and opinion. Then, you can examine the difference between opinions that are substantiated and those that are not.