Finding the Main Idea

What are we learning today?

You will learn to find the main idea of a short text.

Explanation

• The main idea is what the whole text is about.
• Read the title and look at the pictures first.
• Read the first lines.
• Then say the main idea in one short sentence.
• Details are small facts. They help the main idea, but they are not the main idea.

Examples

1. The title is "Making music". The main idea is that music is popular in Kazakhstan.
2. A text about a school with many clubs. The main idea is the clubs at the school.
3. "Li is thirteen" is only a detail.

Remember!

• Do not choose a small detail as the main idea.
• The title and pictures help you.

Check yourself

1. Is "Li is thirteen" the main idea or a detail?
2. What helps you find the main idea quickly?