Finding the Main Idea
Grade 3rd Grade · ELA · 45 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can find the main idea of a story.
Reading Passage
Finding the Main Idea
Every story has a main idea. The main idea is what the story is mostly about. It is like the heart of the story. To find the main idea, ask yourself, "What does the writer want me to know?" Sometimes, the writer tells you the main idea right away. Other times, you need to look for clues.
Clues can be in the title. The title often tells you what the story will be about. Clues can also be in the pictures. The pictures show you what is happening in the story. The words in the story are also clues. Some words are used again and again. These words can point to the main idea.
Let’s say you read a story about a dog named Max. Max likes to play fetch. Max likes to eat treats. Max likes to go for walks. The main idea is that Max is a happy dog. The story tells you all the things that make Max happy.
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
The main idea is like the heart of the story, and it tells you what the story is mostly about.
- 2
To find the main idea, ask yourself, 'What does the writer want me to know?'
- 3
Clues about the main idea can be found in the title, pictures, and repeating words in the story.
Practice Questions
7 questions · Multiple choice & Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“What is the main idea of the following story? A cat named Whiskers loves to chase mice. Whiskers also enjoys napping in sunny spots. Whiskers purrs loudly when petted. The main idea is that...”
Teacher Guide
Get the complete package:
- Answer keys for all questions
- Differentiation strategies
- Extension activities
- Printable student handouts
