Main Idea Mania
What is the main idea of a story?
The big idea or what the story is mostly about.
What does the word "gigantic" mean?
Very big.
What does it mean to "cite evidence"?
To show proof or examples from the text.
How can you tell when the story is in “first person”?
The narrator – uses “I” or “me.”
Which type of writing tells a story?
Narrative writing.
If the story is about a girl training a puppy, what might be the main idea?
How to take care of and train a pet.
“He sprinted down the track.” What does “sprinted” mean?
Ran fast.
What clue in a story might tell you the character is scared?
They hide, tremble, or say "I'm scared."
What is “point of view”?
Who is telling the story.
What kind of writing gives your opinion?
Opinion writing.
True or False: The main idea is always the first sentence of a paragraph?
False- it can be anywhere!
Which word is the antonym (means the opposite) of “joyful”?
Sad or unhappy.
If the text says, “She wore her lucky socks to every game,” what can you infer?
She believes they help her win.
What’s the difference between the narrator’s point of view and a character’s?
Narrator sees the whole story; character only knows their part.
Which part of your writing tells the reader what your writing will be about?
The introduction.
What is one detail that supports this main idea: “Recycling helps the Earth”?
It keeps trash out of the ocean.
What kind of language is this? “The flowers danced in the wind.”
Figurative
What are two details you might look for to explain why a character is sad?
A friend moved, they lost something, etc.
The author writes, “The tortoise perservered, and he won!” What message is the author trying to teach?
Keep trying – don’t give up.
In opinion writing, what must you include to support your opinion?
Reasons and examples.
Read this sentence: "Amy turned off lights, reused bags, and picked up litter." What’s the main idea?
Amy helps the environment.
What is the meaning of the root word in “preview”?
View means to see. Pre means before → "to see before."
Read this line: “His heart raced and he clenched his fists.” What does this show about how he feels?
He is angry or nervous.
What text feature helps you find the meaning of a bold word in an article?
Glossary.
What must be included in a good conclusion.
Restating the focus of the essay.