Pick the Main Idea
Read each paragraph. Circle what it is mostly about.
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This is sheet #50324601.
How to do it
- Read the paragraph.
- Read the three choices.
- Circle what it is mostly about.
Teaching tip
The detail choice is true, but too small. Talk about why it isn't the main idea. This sheet is aligned with Common Core RI.2.2.
About this worksheet
Three short paragraphs. Each has a main idea, a detail and an off-topic choice.
What kids practice
The main idea is what a paragraph or story is mostly about. Details are the smaller facts that tell more about it. Sequence is the order things happen, often shown with words like first, next, then and last. Both skills show that a reader understands, not just reads the words.
Watch for
- Picking one interesting detail as the main idea.
- Choosing a main idea that is too big, like "animals" instead of "how penguins swim."
- Mixing up the order when retelling, or skipping the middle.
It's free to print, with an answer key. See the full main idea and sequence guide for 2nd grade.
More sheets in this set
- See it all
1. Main Idea and Sequence ChartThe main idea table with an example, and the order words first, next, then and last. 
3. Main Idea and DetailsOne paragraph with big lines to write the main idea and two details.
4. Put It in OrderMixed-up steps for everyday tasks and stories to number in order.
5. Order WordsFive steps in order. Write an order word for each, then draw the last step.