Main Ideas and Supporting Details

Front

What is the main idea of a text?

Back

The main idea is what the author wants to tell you about the subject of the text.

Front

How can you identify the main idea in an informational text?

Back

Analyze the title, headings, subheadings, first and last paragraphs, and repeated keywords or phrases.

Front

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

Back

The topic is what the text is about; the main idea is what the author wants to convey about that topic.

Front

What does it mean to summarize a text?

Back

To summarize means to condense the main ideas and key details of the text into a shorter version.

Front

What are supporting details?

Back

Supporting details are facts, examples, or descriptions that help explain or reinforce the main idea.

Front

Why is it important to identify the main idea?

Back

Identifying the main idea helps you understand the overall message of the text.

Front

What is an example of a main idea?

Back

Eating healthy foods is good for you.

Front

What is an example of a supporting detail?

Back

Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins.

Front

How can headings help in finding the main idea?

Back

Headings often summarize the content of the sections, guiding you to the main idea.

Front

What should you do if you can't find the main idea?

Back

Look for repeated keywords or phrases throughout the text.