Main Idea and Supporting Details

Front

What is the main idea?

Back

The main idea is the central point or message of a text.

Front

What are supporting details?

Back

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

Front

How do you identify the main idea in a paragraph?

Back

Look for the sentence that summarizes the paragraph or the most important point.

Front

What is an example of a main idea?

Back

Rodeo clowns protect cowboys by putting themselves in danger.

Front

What is an example of supporting details?

Back

Rodeo clowns jump in front of bulls to protect riders.

Front

Why is it important to have a clean kitchen?

Back

A clean kitchen is important for health and to prevent sickness.

Front

What do astronauts use to keep their trays clean?

Back

Astronauts use wet wipes to clean their trays in space.

Front

What is the relationship between main ideas and supporting details?

Back

Supporting details explain or provide evidence for the main idea.

Front

What is a central idea?

Back

The central idea is the most important point that the author wants to convey.

Front

How can you tell if a sentence is a main idea?

Back

A main idea sentence usually summarizes the overall message of the text.