Main Idea

What is the main idea of a passage?

• The main idea is the subject or title of what the passage is about.

• The main idea of a passage is the central point or message that the author is trying to present to the reader.

• The main is always the first sentence of a paragraph or passage.

• The main idea is one or two words that tells what a passage is mostly about.

Tags

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RL.4.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

Many times, a clue to the main idea of a passage can be found...

• near the start or end of a paragraph

• in the middle of a paragraph

• on the last page

• as a key detail

Tags

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

The main idea is supported by what?

• topics

• details

• subjects

• periods

Tags

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RL.4.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

Supporting details....

• are pointless when determining the central idea

• just give more information about the topic

• do not support the central idea

• give more information and examples about the central idea

Tags

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RL.5.1

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

What might be the central idea of a book titled "Eat Your Fruits and Vegetables?"

• Tomatoes are good for you.

• Strawberries have seeds on the outside.

• It's important to eat vegetables and fruit.

• Spinach is good for your bones.

Tags

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RL.4.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

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.

Tags

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RI.6.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

One of the most popular musical instruments is the piano. In the traditional musical instrument classification system of string, woodwind, percussion and brass, the piano falls into two categories. It is considered a string instrument because the sound comes from the strings inside the piano. It is also considered a percussion instrument, since the player strikes the keyboard, which signals an internal hammer to strike the strings.

What is the author's main point?

• The piano is both a string and percussion instrument.

• The piano is a string instrument.

• The piano is a popular instrument.

• The strings of a piano makes the sound.

Tags

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RL.4.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

Ballet dancers make dancing on their toes look easy, but it is not. They train for many hours each day. They must constantly practice to learn the difficult moves they make, and they have to exercise to keep themselves in shape. While many dancers are good, only the most disciplined, talented, and well trained dancers perform onstage as professionals.

What is the main idea?

• Ballet dancers are in good physical shape.

• Ballet dancers train very hard every day.

• Most ballet dancers are processionals.

• Ballet dancers learn difficult moves.

Tags

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RL.4.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2

The Masai of East Africa raise cattle for a living. Very little grain is raised in the area, so the people depend on the cattle for food. Most people drink a gallon of milk a day, and beef is a popular meat. Cow's blood is also used as food. It doesn't spoil, it provides protein and minerals, and it can be taken from cows while traveling.

What is this passage mostly about?

• There is not much grain raised in the world.

• People in different areas of the world eat odd foods.

• Cows provide food for the Masai.

• There are many different kinds of cattle raised by the Masai.

Tags

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RL.4.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RL.6.2