RL 8.1

RL 8.1 - Main ideas

Cite the textual evidence

Objectives

• Identify differences between main idea and summary.

• Differentiate implicit from explicit texts.

Main idea

• The central/main idea in a text is the point that the author wants you to remember most. 

  
  

• Some writers may state the main idea, but it is often implied. If the main idea is not explicitly stated in the text, the reader has to make inferences  about it.

Multiple Choice

"His eyes are blue."

• Implicit

• Explicit

Multiple Choice

The grass danced softly, a beautiful sight of a green sea."

• Implicit

• Explicit

Multiple Choice

"It's windy outside."

• Implicit

• Explicit

Identifying the central idea

• In one word, what is the text about? (This question helps you identify the topic of the text)

• In one sentence, what does the text say about the topic? (This question helps you identify the general message communicated by the author in the text).

• Is the central idea implicit or explicit?

• If the central idea is explicit, which quote from the text states the main idea?

• If the central idea is implicit, which quote from the text supports my analysis of the main idea?

Multiple Choice

What is the main idea?

• Its the authors point of view

• Is what the passage is mostly about

• It is the sequence of the story.

Multiple Choice

Soccer players learn many skills when playing soccer. Soccer players learn how to dribble and pass the ball. They also learn how to control the ball so they can eventually score. Most importantly, soccer players learn how to work together with their teammates.

What is the main idea?

• They also learn how to control the ball so they can eventually score.

• Soccer players learn how to dribble.

• They learn how to work together as teammates.

• Soccer players learn many skills when playing soccer.

Multiple Choice

There are many fun things to do at the beach. Swimming is one thing that can be done at the beach. Snorkeling is another thing that can be enjoyed. Playing beach volleyball can be a lot of fun. It is also fun to look for shells. Some people simply like to sunbathe.

What is the main idea?

• There are many fun things to do at the beach.

• It is also fun to look for shells.

• Some people simply like to sunbathe.

• Going to the beach to swim can be fun.

How to use evidence

• If answer is explicit, quote or paraphrase the text.

• If answer is implicit in the text, include reasoning and support it with a quote from the text.