Main Idea Brain Scramble!

Read each group of sentences. Circle the sentence that tells the main idea.

Group 1

• The cat has soft fur.
• The cat loves to play with yarn.
• The cat is a playful and cuddly pet.
• The cat purrs when you pet it.

Group 2

• Birds build nests in trees.
• Birds sing beautiful songs.
• Birds use their wings to fly.
• Birds are amazing creatures that can fly and sing.

Group 3

• Apples are red or green.
• Apples grow on trees.
• You can make juice from apples.
• Apples are a healthy and versatile fruit.

Group 4

Write a main idea sentence for the following details:

• The sun gives us light.
• The sun warms the Earth.
• The sun helps plants grow.

Main Idea:

All About Owls

Owls are fascinating birds that are known for many special things. They are mostly active at night, which means they are nocturnal. This helps them hunt for food when other animals are sleeping.

One amazing thing about owls is their eyes. They have very large eyes that help them see well in the dark. Unlike people, owls cannot move their eyes from side to side. Instead, they can turn their heads almost all the way around! This helps them look in many directions without moving their bodies.

Owls are also great hunters. They have sharp claws, called talons, which they use to catch small animals like mice and insects. Their feathers are very soft, which helps them fly silently. This way, their prey does not hear them coming. Many owls also have flat faces that help them hear even the smallest sounds.

There are many different kinds of owls. Some owls are big, like the Great Horned Owl, and some are small, like the Elf Owl. They live all over the world, from forests to deserts. Each kind of owl has its own unique hoots and calls.

In conclusion, owls are truly special birds. Their ability to see and hunt at night, turn their heads, and fly silently make them incredible creatures of the night sky.

Main Idea & Details Practice: Tier 1

Read each short paragraph. Find the main idea and one important detail.

Paragraph 1: My Dog Max

My dog Max loves to play. He chases after balls in the park. He also enjoys playing tug-of-war with his favorite rope toy. When I get home from school, Max is always ready to play.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Write one detail that supports the main idea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Paragraph 2: Delicious Pizza

Pizza is a very popular food. You can choose many different toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or extra cheese. Pizza is often eaten at parties or for a quick dinner. Many people enjoy eating pizza.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Write one detail that supports the main idea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Paragraph 3: The Big Red Fire Truck

Fire trucks are very important vehicles. They are usually bright red and have loud sirens. Firefighters use fire trucks to carry long hoses and ladders to put out fires. Fire trucks help keep people safe.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. Write one detail that supports the main idea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Main Idea & Details Practice: Tier 2

Read each paragraph carefully. Identify the main idea and two supporting details.

Paragraph 1: The Ocean

The ocean is a vast and mysterious place. It covers most of Earth's surface and is home to millions of different creatures. From tiny plankton to enormous whales, the ocean teems with life. Scientists are still discovering new species in its depths, and there are many parts of the ocean that humans have not yet explored.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. List two details that support the main idea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Paragraph 2: Why Exercise is Good for You

Regular exercise is very important for staying healthy. When you exercise, your heart gets stronger, which helps pump blood all over your body. Exercise also helps you build strong muscles and bones. Plus, it can make you feel happier and less stressed because your body releases special chemicals that improve your mood. So, make sure to get some physical activity every day!

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. List two details that support the main idea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Paragraph 3: The Story of Chocolate

Chocolate is a delicious treat enjoyed by many people around the world, but its history is quite interesting. It started as a bitter drink thousands of years ago in Central and South America. Ancient civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs used cacao beans, the source of chocolate, as currency and in special ceremonies. It wasn't until much later that sugar was added, transforming it into the sweet candy we know today. Explorers brought cacao beans to Europe, and from there, chocolate spread globally.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. List two details that support the main idea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Main Idea & Details Practice: Tier 3

Read the passages below. For each, identify the main idea, and then select three important supporting details. Be prepared to explain how your chosen details support the main idea.

Passage 1: The Amazing Monarch Butterfly Migration

Monarch butterflies are famous for their incredible annual migration. Every autumn, millions of these delicate insects travel thousands of miles from the United States and Canada all the way to warmer climates in Mexico and California. This journey is one of the longest insect migrations known. The butterflies fly day and night, using the sun as a compass. What's even more astonishing is that no single butterfly completes the entire round trip; it takes several generations to finish the full migration cycle. The butterflies born in late summer are known as the "super generation" and are the ones that make the long flight south, living much longer than their spring and summer relatives to ensure the species' survival.

1. What is the main idea of this passage?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. List three details that strongly support the main idea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Passage 2: The Importance of Bees

Bees are small insects, but they play a gigantic role in our world, far beyond just making honey. Their most crucial job is pollination. As bees fly from flower to flower collecting nectar, they carry pollen from one plant to another. This process allows many plants, including those that produce fruits, vegetables, and nuts, to grow. Without bees, many of the foods we rely on would not exist. Unfortunately, bee populations are declining due to factors like habitat loss and pesticide use. Protecting bees is essential for our food supply and the health of our planet.

1. What is the main idea of this passage?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. List three details that strongly support the main idea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Passage 3: The Invention of the Internet

The Internet, a vast network connecting computers worldwide, has revolutionized how we live, work, and communicate. It didn't appear overnight but developed over many years. Its origins trace back to the 1960s with a project called ARPANET, created by the U.S. Department of Defense. This early network allowed scientists and researchers to share information quickly. Over time, more networks connected, and new technologies made it easier for ordinary people to use. By the 1990s, the World Wide Web was created, making the Internet accessible to millions and changing society forever, enabling instant communication, access to endless information, and global commerce.

1. What is the main idea of this passage?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

2. List three details that strongly support the main idea.
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   

Answer Key: Main Idea & Details

Warm-Up: Main Idea Brain Scramble!

Group 1

• The cat has soft fur.
• The cat loves to play with yarn.
• The cat is a playful and cuddly pet.
• The cat purrs when you pet it.

Group 2

• Birds build nests in trees.
• Birds sing beautiful songs.
• Birds use their wings to fly.
• Birds are amazing creatures that can fly and sing.

Group 3

• Apples are red or green.
• Apples grow on trees.
• You can make juice from apples.
• Apples are a healthy and versatile fruit.

Group 4

Write a main idea sentence for the following details:

• The sun gives us light.
• The sun warms the Earth.
• The sun helps plants grow.

Main Idea: The sun is essential for life on Earth. (or similar wording)


## Main Idea & Details Practice: Tier 1

Paragraph 1: My Dog Max

My dog Max loves to play. He chases after balls in the park. He also enjoys playing tug-of-war with his favorite rope toy. When I get home from school, Max is always ready to play.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?

   • Thought Process: All sentences are about how Max loves to play.
   • Answer: My dog Max loves to play.

2. Write one detail that supports the main idea.

   • Thought Process: Look for a specific example of Max playing.
   • Answer: He chases after balls in the park. (or He enjoys playing tug-of-war.)

Paragraph 2: Delicious Pizza

Pizza is a very popular food. You can choose many different toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, or extra cheese. Pizza is often eaten at parties or for a quick dinner. Many people enjoy eating pizza.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?

   • Thought Process: All sentences are about pizza being a popular food.
   • Answer: Pizza is a very popular food.

2. Write one detail that supports the main idea.

   • Thought Process: Look for a specific reason why it's popular or what makes it popular.
   • Answer: You can choose many different toppings. (or Pizza is often eaten at parties or for a quick dinner.)

Paragraph 3: The Big Red Fire Truck

Fire trucks are very important vehicles. They are usually bright red and have loud sirens. Firefighters use fire trucks to carry long hoses and ladders to put out fires. Fire trucks help keep people safe.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?

   • Thought Process: All sentences describe why fire trucks are important.
   • Answer: Fire trucks are very important vehicles.

2. Write one detail that supports the main idea.

   • Thought Process: Look for a specific fact about fire trucks that shows their importance.
   • Answer: They carry long hoses and ladders to put out fires. (or They help keep people safe.)

Main Idea & Details Practice: Tier 2

Paragraph 1: The Ocean

The ocean is a vast and mysterious place. It covers most of Earth's surface and is home to millions of different creatures. From tiny plankton to enormous whales, the ocean teems with life. Scientists are still discovering new species in its depths, and there are many parts of the ocean that humans have not yet explored.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?

   • Thought Process: The paragraph introduces the ocean as a large, unknown place full of life.
   • Answer: The ocean is a vast and mysterious place, full of life.

2. List two details that support the main idea.

   • Thought Process: Look for specific facts that describe its vastness, mystery, or life.
   • Answer: It covers most of Earth's surface. It is home to millions of different creatures. (or Scientists are still discovering new species.)

Paragraph 2: Why Exercise is Good for You

Regular exercise is very important for staying healthy. When you exercise, your heart gets stronger, which helps pump blood all over your body. Exercise also helps you build strong muscles and bones. Plus, it can make you feel happier and less stressed because your body releases special chemicals that improve your mood. So, make sure to get some physical activity every day!

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?

   • Thought Process: The paragraph explains the many benefits of regular exercise.
   • Answer: Regular exercise is very important for staying healthy and happy.

2. List two details that support the main idea.

   • Thought Process: Look for specific health benefits mentioned.
   • Answer: It makes your heart stronger. It helps you build strong muscles and bones. (or It can make you feel happier and less stressed.)

Paragraph 3: The Story of Chocolate

Chocolate is a delicious treat enjoyed by many people around the world, but its history is quite interesting. It started as a bitter drink thousands of years ago in Central and South America. Ancient civilizations like the Maya and Aztecs used cacao beans, the source of chocolate, as currency and in special ceremonies. It wasn't until much later that sugar was added, transforming it into the sweet candy we know today. Explorers brought cacao beans to Europe, and from there, chocolate spread globally.

1. What is the main idea of this paragraph?

   • Thought Process: The paragraph focuses on the interesting history and evolution of chocolate.
   • Answer: Chocolate has a long and interesting history, starting as a bitter drink and becoming a sweet treat.

2. List two details that support the main idea.

   • Thought Process: Look for historical facts about chocolate.
   • Answer: It started as a bitter drink thousands of years ago. Ancient civilizations used cacao beans as currency. (or Explorers brought cacao beans to Europe.)

Main Idea & Details Practice: Tier 3

Passage 1: The Amazing Monarch Butterfly Migration

Monarch butterflies are famous for their incredible annual migration. Every autumn, millions of these delicate insects travel thousands of miles from the United States and Canada all the way to warmer climates in Mexico and California. This journey is one of the longest insect migrations known. The butterflies fly day and night, using the sun as a compass. What's even more astonishing is that no single butterfly completes the entire round trip; it takes several generations to finish the full migration cycle. The butterflies born in late summer are known as the "super generation" and are the ones that make the long flight south, living much longer than their spring and summer relatives to ensure the species' survival.

1. What is the main idea of this passage?

   • Thought Process: The passage highlights the extraordinary nature of the monarch butterfly's migration.
   • Answer: Monarch butterflies undertake an incredible and complex annual migration.

2. List three details that strongly support the main idea.

   • Thought Process: Focus on facts that emphasize the scope and unique aspects of the migration.
   • Answer: They travel thousands of miles to Mexico and California. No single butterfly completes the entire round trip. It takes several generations to complete the cycle. (or They use the sun as a compass; the "super generation" makes the long flight.)

Passage 2: The Importance of Bees

Bees are small insects, but they play a gigantic role in our world, far beyond just making honey. Their most crucial job is pollination. As bees fly from flower to flower collecting nectar, they carry pollen from one plant to another. This process allows many plants, including those that produce fruits, vegetables, and nuts, to grow. Without bees, many of the foods we rely on would not exist. Unfortunately, bee populations are declining due to factors like habitat loss and pesticide use. Protecting bees is essential for our food supply and the health of our planet.

1. What is the main idea of this passage?

   • Thought Process: The passage emphasizes the vital role bees play, especially in pollination, and the need for their protection.
   • Answer: Bees are incredibly important for our environment and food supply, but they are in danger and need protection.

2. List three details that strongly support the main idea.

   • Thought Process: Look for details explaining their function, impact, and current situation.
   • Answer: Their most crucial job is pollination. Without bees, many foods we rely on would not exist. Bee populations are declining due to habitat loss and pesticide use. (or Protecting bees is essential for our food supply.)

Passage 3: The Invention of the Internet

The Internet, a vast network connecting computers worldwide, has revolutionized how we live, work, and communicate. It didn't appear overnight but developed over many years. Its origins trace back to the 1960s with a project called ARPANET, created by the U.S. Department of Defense. This early network allowed scientists and researchers to share information quickly. Over time, more networks connected, and new technologies made it easier for ordinary people to use. By the 1990s, the World Wide Web was created, making the Internet accessible to millions and changing society forever, enabling instant communication, access to endless information, and global commerce.

1. What is the main idea of this passage?

   • Thought Process: The passage describes the Internet's development and its transformative impact.
   • Answer: The Internet evolved over time from a military project to a global network that has revolutionized society.

2. List three details that strongly support the main idea.

   • Thought Process: Look for historical milestones and impacts mentioned.
   • Answer: Its origins trace back to the 1960s with ARPANET. It allowed scientists and researchers to share information. By the 1990s, the World Wide Web made it accessible to millions. (or It has revolutionized how we live, work, and communicate; it enables instant communication, access to endless information, and global commerce.)

Main Idea & Details Exit Ticket

Tell me what you learned about main idea and details today!

1. In your own words, what is the main idea of a story or paragraph?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. In your own words, what is a supporting detail? How does it help the main idea?
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
   
3. Read the sentence below:
   Butterflies have colorful wings.
   • Which of these would be a supporting detail for that main idea?
     
     
     
     
     
     
     • A. Butterflies drink nectar from flowers.
     • B. Some butterflies have blue and orange wings.
     • C. Butterflies start as caterpillars.