Skimming (Main Idea)
Every day, millions of people commute to work by train, bus, or car. While traveling, many listen to music, check their phones, or even try to finish work tasks. Rarely do they just sit quietly and enjoy the moment
What is the main idea?
People usually multitask while commuting instead of being mindful.
The Eiffel Tower in Paris was completed in 1889. It is visited by millions of people each year.
Question: Find the year the Eiffel Tower was completed.
1889.
Maria wore her coat, scarf, and gloves before leaving the house. She saw her breath in the air as she walked outside.
Question: What can you infer about the weather?
It’s cold outside.
Chocolate has been enjoyed for centuries. Originally consumed as a bitter drink by the Mayans, it became sweetened after being brought to Europe. Today, it is one of the most popular treats worldwide.
Question: What is the main idea?
The history and popularity of chocolate.
The Amazon rainforest covers around 5.5 million square kilometers. It produces about 20% of the world’s oxygen and is home to countless species of plants and animals.
Question: How many square kilometers does the Amazon rainforest cover?
5.5 million.
When Jason opened his report card, he smiled widely and ran to show his parents.
Question: What can you infer about Jason’s grades?
They were good grades.
Urban gardens are becoming more common in large cities. People grow vegetables on rooftops, balconies, or even in small shared spaces. These gardens provide fresh food and help reduce stress for city residents.
Question: What is the main idea?
Urban gardens are increasing in cities and have benefits.
The Nobel Peace Prize is awarded every year in Oslo, Norway. Past winners include Malala Yousafzai in 2014 and Nelson Mandela in 1993.
Question: In what year did Malala win the Nobel Peace Prize?
2014.
The lights in the store were off, the doors were locked, and a sign said “Closed.” A man knocked on the door, but nobody answered.
Question: What can you infer about the store?
It was closed for the day.
Throughout history, inventions such as the printing press, the steam engine, and the internet have dramatically changed human life. Each invention transformed how people communicated, worked, and connected with the world around them.
Question: What is the main idea?
Major inventions have transformed human life.
Mount Everest is the world’s highest peak, standing at 8,848 meters above sea level. The first successful ascent was made by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay in 1953.
Question: What is the exact height of Mount Everest?
8,848 meters.
After running five kilometers, Sarah’s face was red, and she was breathing heavily. She reached for her water bottle immediately.
Question: What can you infer about Sarah’s condition?
She is tired/thirsty after exercising.
Honeybees form large hives. There are thousands of bees in a hive. One bee is the queen. She lays the eggs. Some bees gather nectar and pollen from flowers to make honey. Other bees protect the hive. Some bees keep the hive clean. Still other bees help the queen. Each bee has a special job to do in the bee hive. What is the main idea of this text passage?
Each bee has a job to do in a beehive.
The world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, opened in 2010. It is 828 meters high and has 163 floors. The design was inspired by a desert flower, and the tower includes offices, apartments, and even a luxury hotel. Every New Year’s Eve, a spectacular firework and light show is held at the tower, attracting thousands of visitors.
Question: How many floors does the Burj Khalifa have?
163 floors.
When the teacher handed back the exam papers, most students quickly looked at their grades. Daniel, however, kept his paper face down for a few minutes before slowly turning it over. He sighed, rubbed his forehead, and avoided eye contact with his classmates.
Question: What can you infer about Daniel’s grade?
Expected Answer: He probably received a poor grade and feels disappointed.