Identifying the Central Idea in Informational Texts

This video tutorial guides students through a method to determine the central idea of a text. It begins with an introduction to the concept of central idea, also known as the main idea, and explains its importance in writing. The tutorial then outlines a four-step method for identifying the central idea: reading the article, deciding on sections, rereading for important details, and summarizing the notes into one sentence. The video also provides note-taking techniques and concludes with a recap and example of determining the central idea.

What is another term commonly used for 'central idea'?

• Conclusion

• Main idea

• Supporting argument

• Thesis statement

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CCSS.RI.3.2

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RL.3.2

CCSS.RI.5.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

What does the equation 'text content + personal knowledge = inference' imply?

• Mathematical calculation

• Scientific method

• Inferential comprehension

• Proofreading technique

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CCSS.RI.4.1

CCSS.RI.5.1

CCSS.RL.5.1

CCSS.RL.4.1

CCSS.RI.6.1

What is the first step in identifying the central idea of a text?

• Analyze the author's language

• Divide the text into sections

• Read the text from start to finish

• Take detailed notes

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CCSS.RL.4.2

CCSS.RI.4.2

CCSS.RI.2.2

CCSS.RI.3.2

CCSS.RL.1.2

During which step do you start taking notes on the text?

• Second step

• First step

• Third step

• Fourth step

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CCSS.RF.1.3D

CCSS.RF.1.3A

CCSS.RF.2.4A

CCSS.RF.2.4C

CCSS.RF.3.4C

How should one document the sections of the text while taking notes?

• By importance

• Chronologically

• Alphabetically

• By topic or heading

What should always be included at the top of your notes according to MLA guidelines?

• Date of publication

• Title of the article

• Author's full name

• Summary of the text

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CCSS.RL.4.1

CCSS.RL.5.1

CCSS.RI.3.5

CCSS.RL.9-10.9

What type of details should be noted when reading each section?

• Unimportant details

• Only the conclusions

• Key details and events

• Author's personal details

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CCSS.RF.1.4B

CCSS.RF.2.3D

CCSS.RF.5.3A

CCSS.RF.3.4A

CCSS.RF.1.3G

What should be done if the text is structured with subheadings?

• Ignore the subheadings

• Use them to organize notes

• Only focus on the main headings

• Rewrite them in personal notes

What is the final step in determining the central idea of a text?

• Re-read the text

• Summarize the notes into one sentence

• Discuss the idea with peers

• Publish the findings

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CCSS.RL.2.2

CCSS.RL.3.2

CCSS.RL.4.2

CCSS.RL.5.2

CCSS.RI.1.2

Why is it important to put the central idea into your own words?

• To avoid plagiarism

• To make it easier to remember

• To ensure accuracy

• To personalize the text

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CCSS.RL.3.2

CCSS.RL.4.2

CCSS.RL.1.2

CCSS.RI.1.2

CCSS.RI.3.2