Which sentence states a fact?
In 2015, more than 13% of the people in the United States lived in poverty. Growing poverty is a problem in the United States.
A fact is something that can be proved true by research or observation.
George Washington became president of the United States in 1789.
This statement is a fact. It can be proved by researching what year George Washington was inaugurated president.
An opinion is something that a person believes, thinks, or feels. An opinion can be supported by evidence, but it cannot be proved true.
George Washington was a better president than Thomas Jefferson.
This statement is an opinion. People can have different ideas about what makes someone a "better" president, so the statement cannot be proved.
The second sentence states a fact.
In 2015, more than 13% of the people in the United States lived in poverty.
It can be proved by researching the number of people who live in poverty.
The first sentence states an opinion.
Growing poverty is a problem in the United States.
Problem shows what a person believes, thinks, or feels. Another person might have a different opinion about whether or not something is a problem.