Paragraph Structure - Main Idea and Details

Front

What is the main idea of a paragraph?

Back

The main idea is the central point or message that the author wants to convey in the paragraph.

Front

What is textual evidence?

Back

Textual evidence refers to specific details or quotes from the text that support the main idea or a claim.

Front

How do you make an inference?

Back

You make an inference by combining information from the text with your own experiences and knowledge to draw a conclusion.

Front

What is a supporting detail?

Back

A supporting detail is a piece of information that helps to explain, clarify, or provide evidence for the main idea.

Front

Where is the topic sentence usually located in a paragraph?

Back

The topic sentence is usually the first sentence of a paragraph.

Front

What is the purpose of a topic sentence?

Back

The purpose of a topic sentence is to introduce the main idea of the paragraph.

Front

What does it mean for a detail to not fit with the topic sentence?

Back

A detail that does not fit with the topic sentence does not support or relate to the main idea presented in that sentence.

Front

What is the relationship between the main idea and supporting details?

Back

Supporting details provide evidence and elaboration that reinforce the main idea of the paragraph.

Front

How can you identify the main idea of a paragraph?

Back

You can identify the main idea by looking for the topic sentence and considering the supporting details.

Front

What is the difference between a fact and an opinion in a text?

Back

A fact is a statement that can be proven true or false, while an opinion is a personal belief or judgment that cannot be proven.