Text Detective (Literary & Informational)
What is the difference between an explicit detail and an inference?
Explicit = directly stated; inference = a logical conclusion based on evidence.
What is the difference between theme and central idea?
Theme = universal life lesson (literature); central idea = main point (informational).
How does a theme develop in a story?
Through characters, plot, and events over time.
What can dialogue reveal?
Character traits, feelings, or motivations.
Name one way authors connect ideas. (Think text structure types)
Compare/contrast, cause/effect, problem/solution.
A character says, “I’m fine,” but is shaking. What can you infer?
They are not actually fine (nervous/upset).
Which is a theme?
A. Friendship
B. Friends support each other during hard times
C. Sarah and Jess are BFFs
D. Fred is a bad friend
B. Friends support each other during hard times
How does a central idea develop in informational text?
Through supporting details and examples.
How can an event impact a story?
It can move the plot forward or create conflict.
What is cause and effect?
One event leads to another.
Over the past decade, global temperatures have increased, and polar ice has decreased.
What inference can you make?
Climate change is worsening.
Exercise improves heart health, boosts mood, and increases energy levels.
What is the central idea?
Exercise improves overall health.
Lena breaks a promise, and her friend stops trusting her.
How does this develop theme?
It shows consequences of breaking trust, reinforcing the theme.
“I don’t need help,” Carlos said, struggling with a heavy box.
What does this reveal?
He is stubborn or prideful.
Electric cars do not produce emissions, while gas cars do.
What structure is used?
Compare/Contrast
“I’m ready,” she whispered, avoiding eye contact and fidgeting with her hands.
Why is “She said she’s ready” weak evidence for confidence?
Because her actions contradict her words.
A character lies, faces consequences, and spends the story fixing the damage.
What is the theme?
Lying leads to consequences / Honesty is important.
Research shows students who sleep more perform better in school. Schools that adjusted schedules saw improved outcomes.
How do these details develop the central idea?
They provide evidence that supports the benefits of more sleep.
“I’m fine,” she snapped, crossing her arms.
Why is “She is mean.” an incomplete answer?
It lacks explanation and evidence.
Heavy rain caused flooding, which damaged homes.
Why is this structure effective?
It shows how events are connected (cause → effect).
The author includes statistics about deforestation but also calls forests “vital lifelines disappearing before our eyes.”
What inference can you make AND what evidence supports it?
Inference: The author believes deforestation is serious.
Evidence: Emotional language (“vital lifelines disappearing”).
Schools that start later report improved grades, better attendance, and fewer behavioral issues.
What is the central idea AND one supporting detail?
Central idea: Later school start times benefit students.
Detail: Improved grades (or attendance/behavior).
A character repeatedly tells the truth, even when punished, and eventually earns others’ respect.
How does the plot develop the theme?
The repeated actions and outcomes show that honesty leads to respect.
“I had no choice,” Liam said. “If I didn’t act, we would have lost everything.”
How does this reveal character AND move the plot?
It shows Liam’s desperation and introduces conflict that drives the story forward.
One scientist observed animals in the wild, while another used lab experiments. Both methods had strengths and weaknesses.
What structure is used AND why?
Compare and contrast; it helps show differences and evaluate both approaches.