Main Idea

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.

John and Matt want to be firemen.  They want to ride on the big fire truck.  John wants to climb ladders and rescue people from fires.  Matt wants to hold the big hose and spray water on the fires to put them out.
What is the main idea?

• John wants to climb a ladder.
• John and Matt want to be firemen
• Matt wants to hold a fire hose.
• They want to ride on the big fire truck.

Main Idea is 

• the theme
• what the text is mostly about

Many people have not heard giraffes make noises.  Giraffes do not use sounds to “talk” with each other.  When hurt, giraffes make a low moo, something like a cow.  When frightened, they make a short, high sound.
What is the main idea?

• Giraffes do make noises
• Giraffes talk all the time.
• Cows and giraffes talk to each other.
• Lots of people have heard giraffes talk.

What is the main idea?
bananas, oranges, lemons, apples

• yellow things
• fruit
• my favorite foods
• sports

What is the main idea?
green, blue, purple, red

• colors
• things
• animals
• people

What is the main idea?
book, pencil, eraser, paper

• animals
• colors
• playground
• School supplies

What is the main idea?
seashells, sand, water, towel

• school supplies
• sports equipment
• animals
• beach items

What is the main idea of this picture?

• sports equipment

• fruit

• insects

• who or what the story is about

What is the main idea of this picture?

• sports equipment

• fruit

• insects

• who or what the story is about