Main Idea

Key details give important information that support the main idea.

• True

• False

Which sentence is a supporting detail that you should get enough sleep?

• Many people sleep later on the weekends.

• Caffeine keeps some people awake at night.

• Seven to nine hours keeps you refreshed the next day.

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 many skills when playing soccer.

• They learn how to work together as teammates.

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.

The main idea is what the story is ______________ about.

• mostly

• only

• never

Which supporting detail best supports this topic sentence?

Subway is a healthier option than McDonald's.

• Subway uses fresh ingredients whereas McDonald's has processed fried food.

• A lot of people choose to eat Subway for lunch and dinner.

• McDonald's french fries are salty and delicious.

Which supporting detail best supports this topic sentence?

It takes a lot of hard work to become a professional athlete.

• The pros live the good life.

• People like professional football players make a lot of money.

• Professional athletes spend countless hours practicing their sports.

What is the best question to ask yourself when you are trying to find the main idea?

• Who is the main character?

• What point is the author trying to make?

• What is one important detail?

Mark wanted to be a great skater. But he didn't want to spend the hours practicing. He wished he could just do the tricks easily. Mark's dream was to have everyone stop and stare when he entered the skate park. He  wanted them to say, "Mark is the best skater in the whole world."
What is the main idea?

• Mark wants everyone to think he's a great skater without doing the hard work.
• Mark practices very hard to become a great skater.
• Mark is the best skater at the park.
• Mark wants to learn how to skate so he can compete.

The reader should determine the main idea BEFORE reading the passage.

• True
• False