SSAT Middle Level Reading

A subject designed to help students master reading comprehension skills needed for the SSAT Middle Level test.

Understanding Main IdeasIdentifying Supporting DetailsMaking Inferences
Analyzing Author’s Purpose and ToneUnderstanding Vocabulary in ContextComparing and Contrasting Information
Applying Reading Skills to Science TextsReading for Everyday DecisionsUnderstanding Nonfiction and Fiction Differences
Time Management During the TestElimination Techniques for Multiple ChoiceCareful Reading and Note-Taking
Understanding Main I...Identifying Supporti...Making InferencesAnalyzing Author’s P...Understanding Vocabu...Comparing and Contra...Applying Reading Ski...Reading for Everyday...Understanding Nonfic...Time Management Duri...Elimination Techniqu...Careful Reading and ...
Basic Concepts

Identifying Supporting Details

What are Supporting Details?

Supporting details are the facts, examples, or explanations that help you understand the main idea. They are like the bricks that build up the main idea.

Types of Supporting Details

  • Facts and statistics
  • Examples
  • Descriptions and explanations

How to Spot Supporting Details

  • Look for sentences that explain or prove the main idea.
  • Notice words like "because," "for instance," and "such as."

Why They Matter

Supporting details make the main idea clear and convincing. Without them, the passage would be confusing or unconvincing.

Real-World Reading

When reading news articles, textbooks, or even stories, finding supporting details helps you remember information and answer questions with confidence.

Examples

  • If the main idea is 'Exercise is important,' a supporting detail could be 'It helps your heart stay healthy.'

  • A passage about recycling might list supporting details like 'reduces waste' and 'saves energy.'

In a Nutshell

Supporting details back up the main idea with facts, examples, or reasons.

Key Terms

Supporting Detail
Information in a passage that explains, proves, or gives more information about the main idea.
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Making Inferences