The main idea, sometimes called the central idea, is what a piece of writing is about. It is the most important idea that the writer of a text is trying to communicate to the reader.
Finding the main idea of a passage is a critical reading comprehension skill that is required to understand almost any piece of writing, regardless of the style or purpose of the text.
The main idea is often found at the beginning of a paragraph or other piece of text, but it can sometimes be found in the middle or at the end of a text. It is generally expressed in one sentence or phrase.
Identifying the Main Idea: Worksheet 1
In this worksheet, students will identify the main idea of a passage and give it an appropriate title. It is suitable for students in Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7, and Grade 8.
Identifying the Main Idea: Worksheet 2
In this worksheet, students will identify the main idea of a passage and give it an appropriate title. It is suitable for students in Grade 5, Grade 6, Grade 7, and Grade 8.