M4 - Reading - Main idea.

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• mavo
• Leerjaar 4

Today we will:

• Look at what a main idea of a text is.

• Look at ways to help us find the main idea of the text.

• Practice finding the main idea of some texts.

What is the main idea of a text?

Let's create a word web together. 

Write down what you think the main idea of a text is on the next slide. 

Main idea

The main idea is:

The main/key information or point the author wants you to know after reading the text. 

What strategies can we use to find the main idea?

• Ask yourself what is the main point the author wants me to know.

• Read the title and the headings of a text.

• Look at the first sentence of a paragraph.

• Look at the last sentence of a paragraph. 
• Look for repeated ideas or repeated words in the text.
• Look for words from the same family. 

Word families

Animals: butterflies, frogs, dogs...etc.

Road: vehicles, pedestrians, cars, bikes, roundabout.....etc

Valentine's day: Chocolate, hearts, love....etc. 

Let's look at some examples:

     Click here, and let's go practice! 

The main idea of text 1 is

1. students have to feel secure if you want them to do well.
2. Students must be willing to accept that their teacher is in charge.
3. Students someone to talk to about what is bothering them.
4. students should be encouraged more to test their physical limits.

What is the main idea of "Go Slow Danger"

1. Only giving a ticket to people who speed does not make riding safer.
2. scared and hesitant riders are a danger on the road.
3. The tickets for people who speed has become very expensive.
4. The government should invest in making the roads safer for riders.

What is the main idea of "Exotic Invaders"

1. The Neil crocodiles are difficult to keep in captivity.
2. The Neil crocodiles are in danger of becoming extinct.
3. The Neil crocodiles are a possible threat to the local environment.
4. The Neil crocodiles are a great interest for wildlife researchers.

Let's look back at what are some ways to find the main idea of a text.

Write down all the strategies you have learned today and let's create a word web together on the next slide.

Main idea strategies

Good Job!