Main Idea & Key Details

The main idea of a text is..

• what the text is a little bit about

• what the text is sometimes telling you

• what the text is never about

• what the text is mostly or mainly about

The main idea is supported by...

• key details

• columns

• punctuation marks

• topics

Key details

• are pointless when determining the main idea

• do not support the main idea

• just give more information

• are evidence that point to the main idea

Insects live in many places. Some live on land, some live in water. Others live in the air. Some insects even live in the ground.

What is the main idea of this passage?

• Insects are alive.

• Insects can live in many different places.

• Insects live in the air or on the land.

• Insects live in the water.

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 of this passage?

• It is also fun to look for shells.

• The beach is lame.

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

• Some people simply like to sunbathe.

All About Sharks' Teeth

Which of the key details below would not support the main idea above?

• Sharks have very sharp teeth

• Sharks have an unlimited supply of teeth that always grow back when one is lost.

• Sharks hunts other living creatures for food.

• A shark can go through as many os 20,000 teeth in its lifetime.

Did you know that frogs and toads look alike but that they are actually very different? Frogs need to live near the water. Frogs have long legs to help them jump. They also have smooth, thick skin. Frogs are good swimmers because of their webbed feet. Toads live on land. They have shorter legs to help them hop. Their skin is rough and dry. Toads are not good swimmers. Many people do not know the difference between frogs and toads.

What is the main idea of this passage?

• Frogs and toads look similar, but are very different.

• Toads are not good swimmers

• Frogs live near the water.

• They also have smooth, thick skin.

The main idea is: The red fox is a very interesting animal.

Which key detail below does not support this main idea?

• The red fox's tail helps it to stay balanced.

• Red foxes eat a variety of food including rodents, fish, fruits, and vegetables.

• Red foxes live in dens that are usually underground.

• It is interesting.