Main Idea and Details Quick Check

The main idea is what the story is ______________ about.

• mostly

• only

• never

• very

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.

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 how to dribble.

• They learn how to work together as teammates.

• Soccer players learn many skills when playing soccer.

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

• Beginning/end

• Middle 

What is the difference between a main idea and a detail?

• A main idea is the topic of a text, while a detail is information that supports the main idea.

• A main idea can be found in the conclusion only.

• Details are more important than the main idea.

• There is no difference; they mean the same thing.

Choose the sentence that best supports the main idea: "Recycling helps protect the environment."

• Recycling bins are blue.

• Many people recycle paper and plastic.

• Recycling reduces the need for new raw materials.

• You can recycle once a week.

Another way to say main idea is ​ (a)  

• central idea

• algebra

• biology

• key details

Which of the following is NOT a detail that supports the main idea that exercise is beneficial for health?

• Exercise can help you lose weight.

• Regular exercise can improve your mood.

• Exercise requires expensive equipment.

• Exercise can increase your energy levels.

Key details give important information to support the main idea.

• True

• False

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.