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Finding the Main Idea in Nonfiction
Topic, main idea, and key details with four original passages
Instant PDF download · 19 pages · 753 KB. Print as many copies as you need for your own classroom.
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About this resource
A complete lesson that teaches students to tell the difference between a topic, a main idea, and a key detail, using four short original nonfiction passages (bees, tide pools, the library card, and volcanoes).
Students highlight details, choose and write main ideas, use an organizer, write a mini-summary, and sort sentences as “too small, just right, or too big.” The Teacher Guide includes a think-aloud script, common misconceptions, differentiation, and next steps.
All passages are original to CubbyGo, so there is no copyright worry.
Why teachers use it
- Four original, ready-to-read passages with fact-checked content
- Think-aloud script and “too small / just right / too big” routine
- Graphic organizer and summary-writing page
- Spot-the-better-answer practice with explanations
- Exit ticket with two versions
Questions
What grades is it for?
Grades 3-5. It addresses RI.3.2 and RI.4.2 and works well as a review for grade 5.
Are the passages original?
Yes. All four passages and both exit-ticket passages were written for this resource.
How long does it take?
About 50 minutes, or split it over two days.
What’s inside
- Teacher Guide with think-aloud, misconceptions, and rubric
- Page 1: Read and find the topic (Why Do Bees Dance?)
- Page 2: Read and highlight (Tide Pools)
- Page 3: Choose the best main idea
- Page 4: Main idea organizer
- Page 5: The Library Card
- Page 6: Volcanoes (main idea at the end)
- Page 7: Mini-summary
- Page 8: Sort the sentences challenge
- Page 9: Exit ticket (two versions)
- Answer key and standards page
Standards
Always check your own state and district standards. These are the common standards this resource was written against.
