The Difference
What the difference is
between a fact and an
opinion?
1) A view or judgment formed about
something/someone, not necessarily based on
fact or knowledge.
2) The beliefs or views of a large number or
majority of people about a particular thing.

If a statement uses words such as always,
never, should, all, none, most, least, greatest,
best, and worst – then it most likely is an
opinion because it represents someone’s
personal feelings.

An opinion is a view or judgment formed
about something, which may be based on
fact or knowledge.
1) A thing that is indisputably the case.
2) Information used as evidence or as part
of a report or news article.

A fact can be checked and proven to be true.

No matter who says it, it’s true!

Take a look at the following picture:
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
3 facts about the picture =
This flag is the national flag of Canada.
This picture was taken when the flag was
officially adopted in 1965.
Present include PM Lester B Pearson, GG George
Vanier and other government officials.

3 opinions about the picture =


The new flag is boring.
These men look like they are part of an old boys
club (white, upper class, heterosexual men only).

There should have used colours in the flag to
represent our multicultural society.

Take a look at the following picture:
 What are 3 facts about the picture?
 What are 3 opinions about the
picture?

As you are writing your facts and opinions,
think aloud about what distinguishes each as
a fact and opinion.

Start opinion sentences with phrases such as:
I think /I don't think, I believe (that) /I don't
believe (that), In my opinion, I feel that /I
don't feel that.

“Now you know….”

Share any insights, questions or concerns
that came up while you were writing or
sharing your work.

Now share in your own words how you would
differentiate a statement as fact or opinion.