Main Idea & Details
What is the main idea of a paragraph?
The most important point the author wants you to know.
What does it mean to “make an inference”?
To figure out something the author doesn’t directly say.
What is a synonym for “happy”?
joyful, glad, cheerful.
What are the five common text structures?
Cause/effect, problem/solution, compare/contrast, sequence, description.
What are the three main author purposes?
Persuade, Inform, Entertain (PIE).
Find the main idea: “Wildfires spread quickly and can destroy forests and homes.”
Wildfires are dangerous and destructive.
If a character yawns and rubs their eyes, what can you infer?
They’re tired.
What does the prefix “un-” mean?
Not or opposite of.
Which text structure? “Both lions and tigers are big cats, but lions live in groups.”
Compare/contrast.
If an author writes a funny story, what’s the purpose?
Entertain.
What detail supports this main idea: “Exercise is important for health”?
It strengthens your heart and muscles.
If it’s raining and someone carries an umbrella, what can you infer?
They don’t want to get wet.
Define “reluctant” in this sentence: “He was reluctant to join the game.”
Hesitant or unwilling.
Which structure: “First, mix the batter. Then, bake the cake.”
Sequence or chronological.
If an author explains how volcanoes erupt, what’s the purpose?
Inform
True or False: The main idea is always at the beginning of a paragraph.
False
The author says, “Lily stared at her empty lunchbox.” What might have happened?
She forgot her lunch or someone took it.
What’s an antonym for “ancient”?
Modern or new.
Which structure: “Plastic waste causes ocean pollution. One solution is recycling.”
Problem/Soution
If an author tries to get you to buy a product, what’s the purpose?
Persuade
Which sentence best states the main idea of this passage?
“Dogs have been trained to help people in many ways. They guide the blind, detect diseases, and even work with police to find missing persons.”
Dogs can be trained to perform many helpful jobs for humans.
Passage: “Marcus stared at the clock and bounced his knee. He looked out the window every few seconds.”
Question: What can you infer about Marcus?
He’s nervous or impatient, probably waiting for something important.
What does benevolent mean in this sentence: “The benevolent teacher donated her prize money to help students in need.”
Kind or generous
Passage: “Hurricanes form over warm ocean water. They begin as storms and can grow into massive systems with strong winds and rain.”
Question: What text structure is this?
Cause and effect
Passage: “Every year, thousands of animals are left without homes. Adopting a pet can change both your life and theirs. Visit your local shelter today!”
Question: What is the author’s purpose?
Persuade — the author wants readers to adopt pets from shelters.