Main Idea and Summarizing — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
The main idea of a paragraph about dolphins is that dolphins live in water.
Corrected: The main idea of a paragraph about dolphins is that dolphins are intelligent ocean mammals.
The corrected sentence is: "The main idea of a paragraph about dolphins is that dolphins are intelligent ocean mammals.". The original sentence "The main idea of a paragraph about dolphins is that dolphins live in water." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
2. Fix the sentence:
A passage about recycling has the main idea that plastic bottles go in blue bins.
Corrected: A passage about recycling has the main idea that recycling helps reduce waste and protect the environment.
The corrected sentence is: "A passage about recycling has the main idea that recycling helps reduce waste and protect the environment.". The original sentence "A passage about recycling has the main idea that plastic bottles go in blue bins." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
3. Fix the sentence:
The summary of a story about a lost puppy should include every sentence from the story.
Corrected: The summary of a story about a lost puppy should include only the most important events.
The corrected sentence is: "The summary of a story about a lost puppy should include only the most important events.". The original sentence "The summary of a story about a lost puppy should include every sentence from the story." contained an error that needed to be fixed.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. The main idea is the most important point the author wants you to understand.
The main idea is the central message or most important point of a passage.
2. Supporting details are facts or examples that explain the main idea.
Supporting details provide evidence, examples, and explanations that develop and prove the main idea.
3. A good summary includes only the most important information from a passage.
A summary condenses a text by including only the most important information, omitting minor details.
4. When you summarize, you retell the text in your own words.
Restating text in your own words shows comprehension and avoids copying the original.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Why is it important to find the main idea before you write a summary?
Sample answer: Finding the main idea helps you know which details matter most so your summary stays short and focused.
Identifying the main idea first provides a framework for deciding which details are essential to include in a summary.
2. How can you tell a supporting detail from the main idea?
Sample answer: A supporting detail gives extra information or an example, while the main idea is the big point the whole passage is about.
The main idea is the umbrella concept; supporting details are the specific examples and facts beneath it.