Central Idea
What is the central idea of a text?
The main point or message the author wants to communicate to the reader.
If the author writes a text to convince readers to take actions, such as recycling, what is their purpose?
Persuade
What text structure is used when an author explains how one events leads to another?
Cause and effect.
A diary entry written by someone during the Civil War is an example of which type of source?
Primary source
What type of nonfiction source provides firsthand account or original evidence, such as diaries, speeches, or photographs?
Primary Source
True or False: The central idea can be a single word or phrase like "friendship" or "hope."
False. The central idea is a complete sentence summarizing the main point of the text.
What is the author's purpose if they are writing a step-by-step recipe for baking cookies?
Instruct
If a text compares two animals, highlighting their similarities and differences, what is the text structure?
Compare and contrast.
If you read a textbook chapter summarizing World War II, is it a primary or secondary?
Secondary source.
This nonfiction text structure identifies an issue and proposes ways to solve it.
Problem and Solution
Which of the following is the best way to identify the central idea of a paragraph?
A. Look for repeated ideas or topics. B. Focus only on the first sentence. C. Ignore examples and details.
A. Look for repeated ideas or topics.
What author's purpose is being used if the text gives facts about how rainforests are disappearing, with no option or instructions?
Inform
Which text structure is being used if an author lists steps to fix a flat tire?
Order and Sequence
Which is a primary source?
a. A biography about Abraham Lincoln. b. A letter written by Abraham Lincoln c. A history book about the Civil War.
A letter written by Abraham Lincoln.
A biography about a famous scientist written years after their death is an example of this type of source.
Secondary Source
The central idea of a nonfiction text is explained and clarified using these.
Supporting Details
A story retelling the events of a student's first day of middle school would most likely have what purpose?
Recount
A passage describes a problem with pollution in cities and suggest solutions like stricter laws and green energy. What is the text structure?
Problem and solution.
What is the main difference between a primary and secondary source?
A primary source is created by someone who directly experienced the event, while a secondary source is an analysis, interpretations, or summary of primary sources.
When summarizing nonfiction, this term reminds you to focus on only the most important ideas and leave out personal opinions.
Objective
How does the central idea of a text differ from the supporting details?
The central idea is the overarching point of the text, while the supporting details provide evidence, examples, or explanations to back it up.
If an author writes a detailed description of a sunset, focusing on the colors and feels it evokes, what is their purpose.
Describe
What text structure is used when an author explains what something is, provides examples, and gives detailed information about it?
Description
You find a painting form 1776 that shows George Washington crossing the Delaware. Is this a primary or secondary source, and why?
Primary source because it was created during the time of the event by someone who directly observed or lived through it.
A textbook explaining how photosynthesis works is an example of this type of author's purpose.
Inform