Finding the Main Idea
Grade 3rd Grade · ELA · 60 min· Ccss Ri.3.2
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can find the main idea and details in a story.
Warm-Up Video
Mometrix Academy · 7:53
Identifying Topics and Main Ideas
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
The topic of a piece of writing is what it is about, while the main idea is the point the author is trying to make about that topic.
- 2
The topic can usually be expressed in one word or a short phrase, while the main idea can typically be expressed as one sentence.
- 3
To identify the topic, ask yourself, 'Who or what is this text about?' To identify the main idea, ask yourself, 'What is the author trying to show or teach me?'
Practice Questions
12 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Read the paragraph and identify the main idea and one detail: 'My dog loves to play outside. He chases squirrels in the yard and barks at the mailman. Playing outside is his favorite thing to do.'”
Complete Lesson Package
Get all 3 ready-to-use resources:
