Finding Main Ideas

Front

What is the formula for finding the main idea?

Back

General subject (topic) + what the author says (supporting details) = main idea

Front

Where is the most common place to find the main idea in a text?

Back

The beginning of a text.

Front

Can the main idea be implied or stated?

Back

True

Front

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

Back

What point is the author trying to make?

Front

Is it true that there are three ways to find the main idea?

Back

True

Front

What is a main idea?

Back

The central point or message that the author wants to convey in a text.

Front

What are supporting details?

Back

Facts, examples, or descriptions that help explain or support the main idea.

Front

What is the difference between a stated main idea and an implied main idea?

Back

A stated main idea is directly expressed in the text, while an implied main idea is suggested and requires inference.

Front

How can key words help in finding the main idea?

Back

Key words can highlight important concepts and themes that lead to understanding the main idea.

Front

What role does the topic play in identifying the main idea?

Back

The topic provides the general subject, which is essential for determining the main idea.