Main Idea

And
Supporting Details
Main Idea
 Itis important to find main ideas when
reading. Main ideas help readers
remember important information.
 The main idea of a paragraph tells the
topic of the paragraph. The topic tells
what all or most of the sentences are
abou
Details
 Theother sentences in the paragraph are
called details. Details describe or explain
the main idea.

 Read the paragraph on the next page and

find the main idea.
 Read this paragraph…
 Therain forest is home to
many creatures.
Monkeys, toucans and
macaws live in the rain
forest. Blue Morpho
butterflies and anteaters
also live in the rain forest.
Which is the main idea?
 A) Sloths and tapirs are other creatures
that live in the rain forest.
 B) The rain forest is home to many
creatures.
 C) Monkeys, toucans and macaws live in
the rain forest.
 Read this paragraph…
 Soccer players learn many skills
when playing soccer. Soccer
players learn how to dribble
and pass the ball. They also
learn how to control the ball so
they can eventually score. Most
importantly, soccer players
learn how to work together with
their teammates.
Which is the main idea?
 A) They also learn how to control the ball
so they can eventually score.
 B) Soccer players learn how to dribble.
 C) Soccer players learn many skills when
playing soccer.
 You’re doing a terrific job! Let’s
do one more.
 There are many fun things to
do at the beach. Swimming is
one thing that can be done at
the beach. Snorkeling is
another thing that can be
enjoyed. Playing beach
volleyball can be a lot of fun.
It is also fun to look for shells.
Some people simply like to
sunbathe.
Now you tell me…
 What is the main idea of that paragraph?
Here is an extra activity
 Get a book or magazine of your choice. It may be
one you’ve already read or would like to read.
 Read.
 Choose a paragraph and then find the main idea
of that paragraph.
 Next, copy the paragraph on a sheet of paper.
 Then, identify the main idea by underlining it or
highlighting it with a marker.
 Finally, make an illustration of the main idea to
share. Be creative and have fun!