Main Idea
What is main idea?
The main idea is the point of the paragraph. It's the most important thought about the topic.
What is a supporting detail?
Additional information that explains, defines, or add facts to the main idea.
What is a topic sentence?
A topic sentence states or suggests the main idea of a paragraph or a passage.
Ornament Stocking Tree Lights
Christmas
"We were so close. She made the best cookies and was always early for church. I cry when thinking about her. I wish I can see her one last time."
The person misses someone that passed away.
Passing fears are common in early childhood. Many 2- to 4-year-olds are afraid of animals, especially dogs. By 6 years, children are more likely to be afraid of the dark. Other common fears are of thunderstorms, doctors, and imaginary creatures. What is the main idea?
Passing fears are common in early childhood.
Give me a supporting detail about hamburgers.
Answers will vary.
Where can the topic sentence be found?
At the beginning of the paragraph or passage.
Mittens Boots Scarf Snow
Winter
"I can't wait to see all of my friends. I get a chance to meet my new teacher. And I'm ready to get my new schedule."
Ready for the first day of school.
The main idea can be _______ or _______.
Stated or implied
Name at least three questions supporting details answer.
Who, what, when where, how, how many, which.
A good topic sentence helps you stay _____ on the main idea.
Focused
Pencils Glue Sticks Notebooks Highlighters
School Supplies
"I saw him through the window. He looked at me and I knew I had to have him. I can't wait to take him home."
They're getting a new pet.
What do you need to figure out in order to find the main idea?
Supporting details
Passing fears are common in early childhood. Many 2- to 4-year-olds are afraid of animals, especially dogs. By 6 years, children are more likely to be afraid of the dark. Other common fears are of thunderstorms, doctors, and imaginary creatures. What is one of the supporting details?
Many 2 - to 4-year-olds are afraid of animals.
Children are more likely to be afraid of the dark.
Other common fears are of thunderstorms, doctors, and imaginary creatures.
The topic sentence can make a _____ about the main idea.
Claim or statement
Kleenex Hand sanitizer Thermometer Medicine Bottle
Being sick
What reading strategy do we use to figure out the answers?
UNWRAP
What does implied mean?
Figure it out!
Give me 2 supporting details about Valentines Day.
Answers will vary
A topic sentence helps readers know what your _____ will be about?
Paragraph
Hearts, Red, Pink, Cards, Love, Friends
Valentines Day
How are main idea questions worded?
The main idea of the passage is...
The author’s main point is...
The central or controlling idea is...
The author implies...
The passage suggests...
The main point of the selection is...
The best summary of this passage is...