Determining Central Idea
Define "Central Idea"
The central idea is what the text is mostly about — the author’s main point.
Define "Theme"
A message or lesson the author wants readers to learn.
What is the purpose of a summary?
To briefly and objectively explain the main ideas of a text.
What part of speech names a person, place, thing, or idea?
noun
The name of the baboon in The Lion King.
Rafiki
What type of detail supports a central idea? (What does the detail need to do?)
directly explains, proves, or strengthens the central idea.
Which of these is a theme:
“Friendship helps people overcome challenges” or
“Two girls become friends”?
“Friendship helps people overcome challenges” — it is a message, not a plot event.
What strategy uses 'Who, What, Where, Why, and How'?
5Ws and H
What part of speech shows action or a state of being?
Verb
Why couldn't the bicycle stand up by itself?
It was too tyred
Read the sentence:
"The author explains that droughts destroyed crops"
Is this a Supporting Detail or Central Idea
Supporting Detail
This is the theme of the movie The Lion King?
The circle of Life / honorable mention Remember who you are
This should not be included in a good summary
Opinions about the topic
What part of speech describes or modifies a noun?
Adjective
Why did the golfer get a new pair of pants?
Because he got a hole in one
Explain how two key details work together to develop a central idea? (What can they do together?)
They both connect to the same main point and help build or clarify it.
How can a character’s actions reveal a theme?
Their choices, growth, or consequences show the message the author is communicating.
What should be included in a summary?
(Various Answers) key points, plots, introductory sentence, conclusion.
Expresses strong emotion or surprise
Interjections
What do you call a cold puppy?
A chili dog
How can you infer a central idea when the author does not state it directly?
Look for repeated topics, important details, and the author’s focus across the text.
What is the theme of the book/movie The Lorax
Protect/take care of the environment
What should you do after writing a summary?
Reread and make sure the main point point is clear.
Joins words, phrases, or clauses together
Conjunctions
What did the ocean say to the beach?
"Nothing, it just waved."