Master Main Idea and Supporting Details: Enhance Your Reading Comprehension

Question 1

In a text about the invention of the telephone, which sentence most clearly expresses the main idea?

Accepted Answer

The creation of the telephone transformed communication across the globe.

Answer

Alexander Graham Bell made the first working telephone in 1876.

Answer

In modern society, the telephone is an essential communication tool.

Answer

Over time, the telephone has seen many technological advancements.

Question 2

Which statement accurately describes the relationship between a main idea and supporting details in a text?

Accepted Answer

Supporting details provide evidence to support the main idea.

Answer

The main idea is a brief summary of the supporting details.

Answer

The main idea and supporting details are unrelated.

Answer

Supporting details carry more importance than the main idea.

Question 3

Which detail best supports the main idea that the Statue of Liberty is a symbol of hope and opportunity for many?

Accepted Answer

It has welcomed countless immigrants to America for over a century.

Answer

It was gifted by the French people.

Answer

It stands as one of the tallest statues in the world.

Answer

It is situated on an island in New York Harbor.

Question 4

What is the best definition of the main idea?

Accepted Answer

The central message or point of a text

Answer

A statement that expresses the author's opinion

Answer

A fact that supports a particular point

Answer

A detail that adds interest to a story

Question 5

Read the paragraph: 'The sun is a giant ball of hot gas. It is the center of our solar system. The sun provides light and heat to planets.' What is the main idea of this paragraph?

Accepted Answer

The sun is important to planets

Answer

The sun is a star

Answer

The sun is hot

Answer

The sun is far away

Question 6

Read the sentences: 'The dog was very friendly. He wagged his tail and licked my face.' What is the relationship between these sentences?

Accepted Answer

The first sentence is the main idea and the second sentence is a supporting detail

Answer

The second sentence is the main idea and the first sentence is a supporting detail

Answer

Both sentences are main ideas

Answer

Neither sentence is a main idea

Question 7

Which of the following texts is most likely to have a main idea?

Accepted Answer

A textbook chapter

Answer

A weather report

Answer

A shopping list

Answer

A poem

Question 8

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

It is a general statement

Answer

It relates to the main idea

Answer

It provides specific information

Question 9

Read the sentence: 'Mrs. Smith's students are working on an American Revolution project.' What is the implied main idea?

Accepted Answer

The students are learning about the American Revolution

Answer

Mrs. Smith is a teacher

Answer

The project is about the American Revolution

Question 10

Read the following sentence:

'The primary reason for the growing popularity of online shopping is its convenience.'

Which of the following serves as a supporting detail for this sentence?

Accepted Answer

Online shopping can be accessed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Answer

Online shopping offers a wider selection of products.

Answer

Online shopping is often less expensive than in-person shopping.

Answer

Online shopping eliminates the need to travel to a store.

Question 11

Which characteristic is NOT essential for a strong main idea?

Accepted Answer

It is a minor detail in the text.

Answer

It is stated as a complete sentence.

Answer

It is supported by evidence from the text.

Answer

It is related to a specific topic.

Question 12

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

It is more important than the main idea.

Answer

It provides specific evidence or examples.

Answer

It is directly related to the main idea.

Answer

It helps explain or clarify the main idea.

Question 13

What is the primary purpose of a main idea in a text?

Accepted Answer

To help readers understand the text's central message.

Answer

To entertain the reader.

Answer

To provide a summary of the text.

Answer

To make the text easier to read.

Question 14

Which option best describes the relationship between a main idea and supporting details?

Accepted Answer

Supporting details illustrate and provide proof for the main idea.

Answer

The main idea is a summary of the supporting details.

Answer

Supporting details are separate from the main idea.

Answer

The main idea and supporting details can be used independently.

Question 15

Which of these is NOT a common feature of a supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

Stands as the core focus of a text

Answer

Provides specific examples

Answer

Connects directly to the main idea

Answer

Offers clarification of the main idea

Question 16

Which strategy is useful in determining if a sentence is a supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

Examine if it offers examples or evidence.

Answer

Check if it restates the main idea.

Answer

Analyze if it is unrelated to the topic.

Answer

Verify if it is the paragraph's opening sentence.

Question 17

What is a key difference between a well-crafted main idea and a weak main idea?

Accepted Answer

A well-crafted main idea is specific, while a weak main idea is general.

Answer

A well-crafted main idea is supported by evidence, while a weak main idea is not.

Answer

A well-crafted main idea is stated as a fact, while a weak main idea is stated as an opinion.

Question 18

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a well-defined main idea?

Accepted Answer

It appears in the last paragraph of the text.

Answer

It is a complete sentence.

Answer

It is specific and focused.

Answer

It is supported by evidence from the text.

Question 19

What is the purpose of supporting details in a text?

Accepted Answer

To provide evidence for the main idea.

Answer

To entertain the reader.

Answer

To confuse the reader.

Answer

To make the text longer.

Question 20

What is the relationship between the main idea and supporting details?

Accepted Answer

The main idea is the general statement, and the supporting details provide specific examples.

Answer

The supporting details are the main points, and the main idea is a summary.

Answer

The main idea and supporting details are not related.

Answer

The supporting details are more important than the main idea.

Question 21

What is a helpful strategy for finding the main idea of a text?

Accepted Answer

Look for a topic sentence that states the main idea.

Answer

Read the first and last paragraphs only.

Answer

Highlight all the important words and phrases.

Answer

Guess based on the title of the text.

Question 22

What is the best approach to identify the main idea of a text?

Accepted Answer

Read the entire text and analyze its central message.

Answer

Focus only on the first sentence.

Answer

Identify the longest paragraph.

Answer

Look for the most repeated word.

Question 23

Which characteristic is essential for an effective supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

It is relevant to the main idea.

Answer

It is a personal opinion.

Answer

It is a general statement.

Answer

It is unrelated to the topic.

Question 24

The main idea of a text is its

Accepted Answer

Most important message

Answer

Summary of all details

Answer

Author's purpose

Answer

Main character

Question 25

Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a good supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

Can be a fact or opinion

Answer

Relevant to the main idea

Answer

Provides specific information

Answer

Supported by evidence

Question 26

Which sentence best captures the main idea of a paragraph about the advantages of reading?

Accepted Answer

Reading offers various cognitive, emotional, and social benefits to individuals.

Answer

Reading is essential for gaining knowledge.

Answer

Reading is a delightful pastime accessible anywhere.

Question 27

Which statement provides the most relevant supporting detail for the main idea that consistent exercise is key to overall well-being?

Accepted Answer

Regular exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, lowers chronic disease risk, and strengthens the immune system.

Answer

Working out can be entertaining and relaxing.

Question 28

What is the main idea of the following paragraph: The Amazon rainforest is teeming with an unparalleled diversity of plant and animal life. Scientists estimate that it harbors nearly 10% of all known species on Earth. This incredible variety of species makes the Amazon a global biodiversity hotspot.

Accepted Answer

The Amazon rainforest stands out as an area of exceptional biodiversity, housing a vast array of plant and animal species.

Answer

Scientists have dedicated much research to the Amazon rainforest.

Question 29

Identify the main idea of the following text: The transformative power of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the world we live in. AI-powered advancements are impacting various sectors, from healthcare to finance to transportation. While AI offers the potential to revolutionize many aspects of our lives, it also brings forth significant ethical and societal considerations that need to be addressed.

Accepted Answer

Artificial intelligence is a transformative force, revolutionizing various domains and society, posing both opportunities and challenges.

Answer

AI is a powerful technology with profound implications.

Question 30

Which sentence best supports the main idea that effective communication skills are indispensable for workplace success?

Accepted Answer

Effective communication fosters teamwork, builds positive relationships, and enhances productivity.

Answer

Communication is an essential part of human interaction.

Answer

Technology has made communication easier and faster.

Question 31

What is the main idea of the following text: Wind energy is a clean and renewable energy source. Wind turbines convert the wind's kinetic energy into electrical energy. Wind energy is gaining popularity as a method to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels and combat climate change.

Accepted Answer

Wind energy serves as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to fossil fuels.

Answer

Wind turbines are a common sight in various countries.

Answer

Wind energy is not as reliable as other energy sources.

Question 32

Which of the following is a supporting detail for the main idea that the internet has revolutionized learning?

Accepted Answer

The internet provides vast educational resources and information.

Answer

The internet is used for communication and entertainment.

Answer

The internet can be a distraction from learning.

Question 33

Identify the main idea of the following passage: Climate change poses a significant threat to our planet. The burning of fossil fuels releases greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, trapping heat and causing global temperatures to rise. The effects of climate change are already being experienced worldwide, leading to more frequent and severe natural disasters, rising sea levels, and unpredictable weather patterns.

Accepted Answer

Climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions from burning fossil fuels, is a major threat with global consequences.

Answer

Climate change is a natural phenomenon that has occurred throughout history.

Question 34

Which of the following is a supporting detail for the main idea that exercise is fundamental to a healthy lifestyle?

Accepted Answer

Regular exercise helps maintain a balanced weight, reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and improves overall well-being.

Answer

Exercise can be enjoyable and can reduce stress.

Question 35

What is the central message or idea that the author wants to convey in a text?

Accepted Answer

Main idea

Answer

Inference

Answer

Prediction

Answer

Summary

Question 36

Which of the following is NOT a typical supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

Opinion

Answer

Fact

Answer

Example

Answer

Explanation

Question 37

Read the following text: 'Pesticides are the primary cause of the decline in bee populations. They kill bees directly and weaken their immune systems.'

Accepted Answer

Pesticides are the main reason for the decline in bee populations.

Answer

The use of pesticides has no impact on bee populations.

Answer

Bees are vulnerable to disease due to pesticides.

Answer

Multiple factors contribute to the decline in bee populations.

Question 38

Which strategy is recommended for finding the main idea of a text?

Accepted Answer

Read the title, introduction, and conclusion.

Answer

Read only the first half of the text.

Answer

Rely solely on the table of contents.

Answer

Guess based on the topic.

Question 39

Read the following excerpt: 'The Amazon rainforest is home to an astonishing variety of plants, animals, and insects. Scientists have identified over 40,000 plant species, 3,000 freshwater fish species, and 1,300 bird species in the rainforest.'

Accepted Answer

The Amazon rainforest is incredibly biodiverse.

Answer

The biodiversity of the Amazon rainforest is declining.

Answer

The Amazon rainforest has a large number of plants.

Answer

There are many freshwater fish species in the Amazon rainforest.

Question 40

How does understanding main idea and supporting details benefit students?

Accepted Answer

Improves reading comprehension and critical thinking skills.

Answer

Helps students memorize information.

Answer

Enhances writing abilities.

Answer

Increases vocabulary.

Question 41

Read the following text: 'The invention of the printing press revolutionized the spread of knowledge. Before the printing press, books were handwritten and extremely expensive, limiting access to education and information. The printing press made books more affordable and widely available, leading to increased literacy and the sharing of ideas.'

Accepted Answer

The printing press played a pivotal role in democratizing knowledge and education.

Answer

The printing press was invented to make books more expensive.

Answer

The invention of the printing press had no impact on literacy rates.

Answer

Only the wealthy had access to books before the printing press.

Question 42

Which type of text typically has a clear and explicit main idea?

Accepted Answer

Non-fiction expository text

Answer

Poetry

Answer

Fiction narrative text

Answer

Drama

Question 43

Read the following sentence: 'Human activities, such as burning fossil fuels, are the major causes of climate change.'

Accepted Answer

Human activities are the primary drivers of climate change.

Answer

The impact of human activities on climate change is minimal.

Answer

Deforestation is the sole cause of climate change.

Answer

Climate change is a natural phenomenon.

Question 44

Which question can help you identify the main idea of a text?

Accepted Answer

What is the author's main point?

Answer

What are the most important details in the text?

Answer

What is the text's purpose?

Answer

What are the author's opinions?

Question 45

Read the following passage: 'The Amazon rainforest is home to half of the world's plant and animal species. Its dense vegetation and humid climate make it a vital ecosystem.' Which sentence best expresses the main idea of this passage?

Accepted Answer

The Amazon rainforest is remarkably rich in biodiversity and plays a crucial ecological role.

Answer

The Amazon rainforest faces severe deforestation threats.

Answer

The Amazon rainforest is a large and complex ecosystem.

Question 46

Which detail would best support the argument that 'Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health'?

Accepted Answer

Physical activity strengthens muscles and bones.

Answer

Exercise can be an enjoyable social activity.

Answer

Different forms of exercise exist to suit diverse preferences.

Question 47

Which topic sentence would require a supporting detail about the causes of air pollution?

Accepted Answer

Air pollution poses significant risks to human health and the environment.

Answer

Air pollution can lead to respiratory problems.

Answer

Polluted air contains various harmful substances.

Question 48

What is an effective strategy for determining the main idea of a long and complex text?

Accepted Answer

Break the text into smaller sections and identify the main idea of each section.

Answer

Reread the text multiple times until you understand every sentence.

Answer

Identify the most frequently repeated words and phrases.

Question 49

Which of the following is NOT a valid criterion for evaluating the credibility of a supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

Emotional appeal

Answer

Relevance

Answer

Accuracy

Answer

Clarity

Question 50

Read the following paragraph: 'Renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind power, have become increasingly popular as they offer the advantages of being clean, sustainable, and cost-effective.' Which part of the paragraph serves as the main idea?

Accepted Answer

Renewable energy sources are gaining popularity due to their environmental and economic benefits.

Answer

Renewable energy sources include solar and wind power.

Answer

They offer the advantages of being clean, sustainable, and cost-effective.

Question 51

Which of the following phrases is a common transitional word or phrase used to connect a main idea to a supporting detail?

Accepted Answer

In support of this

Answer

However

Answer

Finally

Answer

Therefore

Question 52

What is the primary reason why identifying the supporting details in a text is important?

Accepted Answer

It allows readers to grasp the depth and complexity of the text's main idea.

Answer

It ensures that readers memorize every fact presented.

Answer

It helps to ignore irrelevant information.

Question 53

Which of the following is a recommended practice for organizing supporting details in a text?

Accepted Answer

Order them in a logical progression that builds on the main idea.

Answer

Arrange them alphabetically or chronologically.

Answer

Repeat the supporting details multiple times for emphasis.

Answer

Provide equal weight to each supporting detail.

Question 54

How can identifying and understanding the relationship between the main idea and supporting details enhance writing abilities?

Accepted Answer

It helps writers structure their arguments coherently and provide evidence to support their claims.

Answer

It guarantees error-free writing.

Answer

It makes writing more interesting and creative.