Central Idea 2

Supporting details are_______________________-

• the central idea

• more important information

• words, phrases,or sentences that tell more about the central idea

• irrelevant information given

Why are supporting 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

“The rain forest is home to many creatures. Monkeys, toucans and macaws live in the rain forest. Butterflies and anteaters also live in the rain forest.”

What is the central idea?

• Sloths and tapirs are other creatures that live in the rain forest.

• The rain forest is home to many creatures.

• Monkeys, toucans and macaws live in the rain forest.

Which of the following best describes a central idea?

• a. A minor detail in the story
  

• b. The main message or point of the text
  

• c. The first sentence of a paragraph
  

• d. The longest word in the passage

  
  

In a well-written paragraph, where is the central idea often found?

• a. In the last sentence
  

• b. In the middle of the paragraph
  

• c. In the first or last sentence
  

• d. It's never directly stated

  
  

Why are supporting details important in understanding the central idea?

• Supporting details distract from the central idea.

• Supporting details are irrelevant to the central idea.

• Supporting details confuse the central idea.

• Supporting details provide evidence and examples that clarify and reinforce the central idea.

When trying to decide the main idea of a text, what is the first question you need to ask yourself?

• What are the vocabulary words

• What am I doing?

• What does the author want me to know about the topic?

Read the following paragraph:

"The Great Wall of China is one of the most impressive structures in the world. It stretches over 13,000 miles across northern China. The wall was built over many centuries to protect Chinese states from invasions. Today, it's a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Chinese history and culture."

What is the central idea of this paragraph?**

• a. The Great Wall is very long
  

• b. The Great Wall is a significant Chinese landmark
  

• c. Many tourists visit the Great Wall
  

• d. The Great Wall took a long time to build

  
  

Read the following paragraph:

"Dogs make wonderful pets for many reasons. They are loyal companions who offer unconditional love to their owners. Dogs can also provide protection and make people feel safe. Additionally, taking care of a dog encourages exercise through daily walks and playtime. Owning a dog can even help reduce stress and improve overall health."

What is the central idea of this paragraph?

• a. Dogs need daily exercise
  

• b. Dogs can help reduce stress
  

• c. Dogs are great pets for various reasons
  

• d. Dogs provide protection for their owners

  
  

Supporting details in a text are used to:

• a. Contradict the central idea
  

• b. Replace the central idea
  

• c. Provide evidence for the central idea
  

• d. Confuse the reader