MAIN IDEA & THEME
What is the main idea of a passage?
The most important point or message of the passage.
What do we call the people or animals in a story?
Characters.
What is a synonym?
A word that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word.
What does it mean to make an inference?
To use clues from the text and what you already know to figure something out.
What are the three common purposes for writing?
To inform, persuade, and entertain.
What is the theme of a story?
The lesson or message the author wants the reader to understand.
What is the setting?
The time and place where a story occurs.
What is an antonym?
A word that has the opposite meaning.
If a character is shivering, wearing a coat, and rubbing their hands together, what can you infer?
The character is cold.
An article explains how volcanoes form. What is the author's purpose?
To inform.
Which is a theme: "A girl named Maya moves to a new school" or "Courage can help us overcome challenges"?
Courage can help us overcome challenges.
What is the plot?
The sequence of events in a story.
What does the prefix un- usually mean?
Not or opposite of.
What is text evidence?
Information or details from a text that support an answer or claim.
An advertisement tries to convince you to buy a new phone. What is the author's purpose?
To persuade.
What details should readers look for when determining the main idea?
Important details, repeated ideas, and information that supports the author's main point.
What is the conflict?
The problem or struggle in a story.
If a character is described as "reluctant," what does that mean?
Unwilling or hesitant.
Why should readers use evidence when answering questions about a passage?
Evidence supports and proves the reader's answer.
What is a simile?
A comparison between two things using "like" or "as."
A character loses a competition but continues practicing until they improve. What theme does this suggest?
Perseverance and hard work can lead to success.
What is the climax?
The turning point or most intense moment of the story.
Use context clues: "The arid desert received almost no rain." What does arid most likely mean?
Very dry.
A character says, "I can't believe you remembered my birthday!" What can you infer about the relationship between the characters?
They likely know each other well or care about each other.
Why might an author use figurative language?
To create vivid images, make writing more interesting, or help readers understand an idea.