Central Idea
What does central idea mean?
The most important point that the author wants you to know
What is a summary in a non-fiction text?
A brief restatement of the text's central idea or important details in your own words.
What is an inference?
A conclusion based on what you already know and text evidence
What is an anecdote?
A brief story about an interesting, funny, or strange event told to entertain or make a point.
What is a character's attitude?
How they think, act, and feel
Supporting details go with the central idea. What are supporting details?
Facts, examples, reasons, or descriptions that explain or expand upon the central idea.
What should not be included in a summary?
Personal opinions or judgements?
True or false?: Inferences are copied directly from the text.
FALSE
What is plot?
Series or episodes or events that make up a story.
What is a character's motivation?
Their reason for their actions
How do you find the central idea? Explain at least ONE way.
-Read the title
-Read the first AND last sentences of each paragraph.
How long is a typical summary? How many sentences?
2-3 sentences
Use what you know AND what the text says to make the inference.
What is the exposition of a story?
Beginning of the story; introduces characters and setting
What is theme?
The life lesson you can learn from reading a text.
How do you find supporting details?
Look at what is being said in between each paragraph.
In a fiction text, what does summary mean?
A brief retelling of the story that includes main characters, setting, conflict, and important events.
Maya glanced at the clock for the third time in two minutes and tapped her pencil against the desk. Her backpack sat open at her feet, papers sticking out in every direction. When the teacher finally said, “You may begin,” Maya let out a long breath and quickly started writing, barely pausing to think.
Why is Maya checking the clock so often?
Maya is likely anxious or eager for the test to begin.
What is the climax of a story?
The most exciting part of a story
How do you find the theme of the story?
Look at the main ideas and details. Think about what you can learn and apply to your own life. Also, you can look at the problem and solution. How did the character respond?
True or false?: The central idea is not always directly stated. Sometimes, you have to infer.
True
In a fiction text, what is the strategy that will help you pick a good summary?
SWBST (somebody, wanted, but, so, then)
In recent years, many cities have added bike lanes to their streets to encourage more people to ride bicycles. These lanes are often marked with bright paint and separated from traffic by barriers or curbs. City officials hope this will reduce traffic congestion and lower pollution levels. However, some drivers complain that the bike lanes take up too much space and make roads more crowded for cars.
Why are cities adding more bike lanes?
Cities are adding bike lanes to reduce traffic and pollution.
What is a conflict? What is a resolution?
Conflict: Problem in the story
Resolution: How the problem is solved
Give an example of a possible theme for any fiction story.
Hard way pays off.
Never give up.
Don't be afraid to try something new.