It is 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 about.
The other 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.
|
The rain 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.
Click on 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.
|
Let’s practice!
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.
Click on 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.
Click on the main idea.
(A) There are many fun things to do at the beach.
(B) It is also fun to look for shells.
(C) Some people simply like to sunbathe.
|
Super job!
Now, go back to your desk and do one of the following activities.
1. Get a book of your choice. It may be one you’ve already read or would like to read. Read the book. 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!
2. Write your own paragraph about a topic that interests you and illustrate it.
|