1 Finding the Main Idea Free Online FlashCards

What is a passage’s topic?

A topic is the general subject a passage is about, often named in a word or short phrase.

What is a passage’s main idea?

The main idea is the most important point the author makes about the topic.

What are supporting points?

Supporting points are details, facts, examples, or explanations that develop or help prove the main idea.

Why is “city trees” alone not a main-idea statement?

“City trees” names the subject but does not say what the author wants readers to understand about it.

What is the main idea of the city-trees example?

City trees can make neighborhoods healthier and more comfortable.

What should you do before deciding a passage’s main idea?

Read the whole passage before deciding; one striking detail may not represent its central point.

What question helps identify a passage’s topic?

Ask, “Who or what is this mostly about?” The answer helps identify the topic.

How can supporting points help you check a proposed main idea?

Check that the details fit the proposed main idea and help explain it.

How should you phrase a main idea in your own words?

State it in your own words, making it broad enough to cover the passage but specific enough to say something meaningful.

Is the main idea always in the first or last sentence?

The first or last sentence may state or reinforce it, but check the whole passage instead of assuming it is always in one of those places.

What is the topic of the passage about birds changing regions with the seasons?

Seasonal bird travel.

In the city-trees example, what role does rainwater absorption play?

It is a supporting point: it explains one way city trees benefit neighborhoods, rather than giving the whole message.