Main idea and supporting details

Front

What is the main idea of a passage?

Back

The main idea is a statement that tells what a passage is mostly about.

Front

What are supporting details?

Back

Supporting details are facts, examples, or descriptions that explain or enhance the main idea.

Front

What is an example of a main idea?

Back

The Pony Express delivered mail to and from St. Joseph, Missouri and San Francisco, California.

Front

What is an example of a supporting detail for the main idea about Mount Rushmore?

Back

The faces of four U.S. presidents are carved into Mount Rushmore.

Front

What does it mean if a detail is NOT supporting the main idea?

Back

It means the detail does not provide relevant information that explains or relates to the main idea.

Front

How can you identify the main idea in a paragraph?

Back

Look for a sentence that summarizes the overall message or topic of the paragraph.

Front

What is the purpose of supporting details?

Back

Supporting details provide evidence or examples that clarify and strengthen the main idea.

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What is a topic sentence?

Back

A topic sentence is a sentence that expresses the main idea of a paragraph.

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What is the difference between a main idea and a supporting detail?

Back

The main idea is the central point of a text, while supporting details are the information that backs up the main idea.

Front

What is an example of a main idea about natural disaster preparedness?

Back

Natural disaster preparedness is essential for safety.