Final answer:
The statement in question is an opinion because it expresses a preference and cannot be verifiably proven true or false. Distinguishing between fact and opinion involves analyzing the verifiability of a statement and recognizing personal or societal biases.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "Don't be the only one on your block who doesn't have a beautiful lagoon-style pool in the backyard" is an opinion. This statement cannot be proven true or false as it is subjective and is influenced by personal feelings, tastes, or opinions. It is meant to persuade rather than state an actual fact. In contrast, a fact is a statement that can be verified and proven to be true or false.
To distinguish between fact and opinion, it is essential to analyze whether the statement can be proven with evidence. Facts are objective realities that are verifiable, while opinions express personal beliefs or preferences. Recognizing bias, assessing the credibility of information, and understanding the context in which a statement is made are all critical when evaluating if a statement is fact or opinion.
Overall, distinguishing fact from opinion is a key skill in reading comprehension, critical thinking, and writing, especially in argumentative and analytical contexts.