Main Idea, Supporting details, and Summarizing Fiction

Front

What is the main idea of a text?

Back

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

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What are supporting details?

Back

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

Front

What is a summary?

Back

A summary is a brief statement that includes the main ideas and important details of a text in your own words.

Front

Why is it important to identify the main idea?

Back

Identifying the main idea helps you understand the overall message of the text.

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What does 'text evidence' mean?

Back

Text evidence refers to specific examples or quotes from the text that support your answers or conclusions.

Front

How can you find the main idea of a paragraph?

Back

Look for the topic sentence, which often states the main idea.

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What is the purpose of supporting details?

Back

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

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What question should you ask to find the main idea?

Back

What point is the author trying to make?

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What is an example of a supporting detail?

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If the main idea is about a cat being afraid, a supporting detail could be 'He hides under the couch when you turn the microwave on.'

Front

What is the difference between a summary and a detailed description?

Back

A summary is concise and focuses on main ideas, while a detailed description includes extensive information.