ISEE Lower Level Reading Comprehension

ISEE Lower Level Reading Comprehension focuses on developing reading skills and comprehension strategies for young learners.

Understanding Main IdeasIdentifying Supporting DetailsMaking Inferences
Understanding Author’s PurposeUnderstanding Vocabulary in ContextRecognizing Cause and Effect
Reading for School AssignmentsUsing Reading Skills in Everyday LifeEnjoying Books and Stories
Previewing the PassageUsing Process of EliminationChecking Your Answers
Understanding Main I...Identifying Supporti...Making InferencesUnderstanding Author...Understanding Vocabu...Recognizing Cause an...Reading for School A...Using Reading Skills...Enjoying Books and S...Previewing the Passa...Using Process of Eli...Checking Your Answer...
Basic Concepts

Understanding Main Ideas

What Is a Main Idea?

The main idea is the big point or the most important message in a passage. It tells you what the whole paragraph or story is mostly about.

How to Find the Main Idea

  • Read the first and last sentences carefully—these often contain clues.
  • Look for repeated words or phrases.
  • Ask yourself: "What is the author trying to tell me?"

Why Main Ideas Matter

Knowing the main idea helps you understand what you read and remember the most important facts.

Practice Makes Perfect

Try to summarize each paragraph you read in one sentence. This helps you spot the main idea quickly.

Examples

  • A paragraph about how bees make honey is mainly about 'how bees make honey.'

  • A story describing a boy's day at school has the main idea 'the boy's experiences at school.'

In a Nutshell

The main idea is the central message of a passage.

Key Terms

Main Idea
The most important point or message in a passage.
Summarize
To briefly tell the main points in your own words.
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Identifying Supporting Details