Main Idea and Key Details

What does the MAIN IDEA of a story tell the reader?

• The lesson or moral 
• The conflict of the story
• What the story is about 
• The beginning, middle, or end

The main idea is supported by what?

• concluding sentences
• details
• a chair

Where in the text can you sometimes find the main idea?

• Beginning/end
• Middle 

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.

I can't wait until this weekend! We’re going to my grandparents’ house and my entire family will be there. I will spend most of my time playing games with my cousins. We always have such a good time together! The day goes by so fast, and by the end we are all exhausted... but we still don’t want to leave!
What is the main idea?

• Weekends are times to travel.
• The author enjoys spending time with her family.
• The author's grandparents live far away.
• The author is sad to leave her cousins.

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.

Dan rides with Mom in the car. They go to the store. They buy food.

Where do Dan and Mom go?

• to the store
• to the house
• to the park

 Ana sees ants in the yard. They are in a line. The ants go to a tree. Ana thinks the 
tree is their home.

Where do the ants go?

• to a tree
• to a rock 
• to a school

Why are key details important?

• They help me understand the main idea
• They are names of characters
• They are always written in bold print
• They are not important

Which key detail best supports the main idea:

Healthy eating can lead to feeling more energized.

• Broccoli and carrots are two healthy foods.

• Most people report needing less sleep when they switch to healthier food.

• McDonald's is not healthy for your body.