PARCC Reading Main Idea 2

Question 1

What is the main idea of a passage?

Accepted Answer

The central point the author wants readers to understand

Answer

The main idea is the central point or overall message the author conveys.

Question 2

A paragraph describes how bees pollinate flowers, spread seeds, and support crops. What is the main idea?

Accepted Answer

Bees are important to plant life and farming

Answer

All the details show how bees benefit plants and agriculture.

Question 3

Which question best helps you identify a passage's main idea?

Accepted Answer

What is this passage mostly about?

Answer

Asking what the text is mostly about points you to the main idea.

Question 4

Where is the main idea often stated directly in a passage?

Accepted Answer

In a topic sentence, often at the beginning or end

Answer

A topic sentence frequently states the main idea near the start or end.

Question 5

How does a supporting detail differ from the main idea?

Accepted Answer

A detail gives specific evidence for the broader main idea

Answer

Supporting details provide specific examples or evidence for the main idea.

PARCC Practice Test