PARCC Reading Main Idea 4 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: In a multi-paragraph article, the central or controlling idea is also called the:
- Theme or thesis (Correct answer)
- Footnote
- Caption
- Glossary
Correct answer: Theme or thesis
The central idea of a longer text is its theme or thesis.
Question 2: Two passages discuss recycling but reach different conclusions. To compare their main ideas, you should:
- Identify each passage's central point and note how they differ (Correct answer)
- Count the paragraphs in each
- Pick the longer passage automatically
- Ignore one passage entirely
Correct answer: Identify each passage's central point and note how they differ
Comparing main ideas means stating each central point and their differences.
Question 3: An author's main idea is often shaped by their:
- Purpose for writing the text (Correct answer)
- Favorite color
- Handwriting style
- Choice of font
Correct answer: Purpose for writing the text
The author's purpose strongly influences the central message.
Question 4: Which detail would NOT support a main idea that 'recycling helps the environment'?
- Recycling shops are sometimes far from home (Correct answer)
- Recycling reduces landfill waste
- Recycling saves natural resources
- Recycling lowers pollution
Correct answer: Recycling shops are sometimes far from home
Distance to recycling shops does not support the environmental benefit claim.
Question 5: A passage's main idea can sometimes be found by reading:
- The opening and closing sentences together (Correct answer)
- Only the middle word
- Just the page number
- The author's name
Correct answer: The opening and closing sentences together
The first and last sentences often frame the central idea.
Question 6: If a story's events all teach that honesty builds trust, this lesson is the:
- Central message or theme (Correct answer)
- Setting
- List of characters
- Page count
Correct answer: Central message or theme
A lesson the whole story teaches is its central message or theme.
Question 7: Which is the best strategy when a passage has several possible main ideas?
- Choose the one that the most details support (Correct answer)
- Pick the shortest option
- Choose the one with the biggest words
- Select the idea mentioned only once
Correct answer: Choose the one that the most details support
The strongest main idea is supported by the greatest number of details.
PARCC Reading Main Idea 4
In a multi-paragraph article, the central or controlling idea is also called the: