Read the paragraph. The main idea is what the paragraph is mostly about. The details give more information.
Paragraph A: Public libraries help communities in many ways. People borrow books, use computers, and ask librarians for help finding information. Libraries also host programs for children and adults. They are important places for learning.
Question
Your Answer
Main Idea: What is this paragraph mostly about?
Detail 1: Name one thing people borrow or use there.
Detail 2: Who helps people find information?
Detail 3: Why are libraries important?
2 Choose the Main Idea
Read each paragraph. Then circle the BEST main idea.
Paragraph B: A school garden can teach students many things. Children learn how seeds grow into plants. They also practice teamwork by watering and weeding together. A garden turns learning into something students can see and touch.
A Children water and weed together.
B A school garden can teach students many things.
C Seeds grow into plants.
Paragraph C: Recycling helps a town in several ways. It reduces waste in landfills and saves some natural resources. Recycling can also save energy when materials are used again. Communities benefit when people recycle correctly.
A Recycling reduces waste in landfills.
B Communities benefit when people recycle correctly.
C Recycling helps a town in several ways.
3 Main Idea or Detail?
Read the paragraph. Then decide: is each statement the MAIN IDEA or a DETAIL?
Paragraph D: Healthy snacks give your body energy. Foods like fruit, yogurt, and nuts can help you stay full and focused. Sugary snacks may taste good at first, but they do not always give lasting energy.
Statement
Main Idea or Detail?
Healthy snacks give your body energy.
Fruit can be a healthy snack.
Sugary snacks do not always give lasting energy.
Healthy snacks can help you stay focused.
4 Write Your Own Paragraph
Write a short paragraph with a main idea and at least 2 supporting details. Pick one topic below or choose your own.
Topic IdeasMy Favorite PlaceA Helpful Classroom ToolA Good Snack Choice
My main idea:
My paragraph:
5 Evidence-Based Questions (SBA Practice)
These two-part questions are like the ones on the state test. First answer the question, then find the evidence that supports your answer.
Part A: What is the main idea of this passage?
Part B: Which detail from the text BEST supports your answer to Part A?
Explain in your own words: How does this detail support your answer?
+ Bonus Reading Practice
Use this short practice to extend Set 2.
Topic words: library, shelf, book, clue
1. Write one sentence using two of the words above.
2. What detail would you expect to find in a passage about this topic?
3. Write one inference a reader could make from a text about this topic.