Main Idea & Summary

Front

What should summaries be written in?

Back

Summaries should be written in your own words.

Front

What is the main point or big idea the author is making about the topic?

Back

Main idea.

Front

Where can you most often find hints to the main idea in a text?

Back

First sentences, Last sentence, Title/subtitle/headings, All of the above.

Front

Is 'iPhone' a main idea?

Back

False. 'iPhone' is a topic, not a main idea.

Front

Should a summary always be shorter than the original text?

Back

True.

Front

What is a summary?

Back

A brief restatement of the main points of a text in your own words.

Front

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

Back

A topic is the subject of the text, while the main idea is what the author wants to convey about that subject.

Front

Why is it important to write summaries in your own words?

Back

It shows understanding and helps retain information.

Front

What are some key elements to look for when identifying the main idea?

Back

Look for repeated ideas, the title, and concluding sentences.

Front

Can a main idea be a single word?

Back

No, a main idea is usually a complete thought or statement.