Main Idea and Theme, Grade 1

Main idea and theme are the same thing.

• True

• False

Main idea and theme are similar, but different.

• True

• False

Main idea is:

• The central idea in nonfiction

• A lesson learned in fiction

Theme is:

• A central idea in nonfiction

• A lesson learned in fiction

What seems to be the main idea in this image?

• Only one type of product can be recycled.

• Many types of products can be recycled.

What seems to be the theme at the end of this story?

• Playing together can be fun!

• Playing together can be stressful.

You are reading a nonfiction book. Details should lead you to the:

• main idea

• theme

You are reading a fiction book. Details should lead you to the:

• main idea

• theme

When you are reading fiction, the theme is revealed through: (check all that apply)

• characters

• setting (the location)

• conflict (the problem)

• plot (the events)