Topic vs. Main Idea

Learn to distinguish topic vs. main idea with our free worksheet!

Matching Vocabulary Match the definition with the appropriate vocabulary word. Topic the general subject; typically one or two words Topic Sentence the part of a passage that explicitly states the main idea Main Idea includes the topic and what the author has to say about it; not always stated Supporting Details more narrowed ideas that provide evidence or examples What's the MAIN IDEA vs. the supporting details? Read the passage in the picture... then, sort the sentences into MAIN IDEA (remember, there should only be ONE) and supporting details. Main Idea Chickens must be taken care of if you keep one as a pet. Supporting Details Make sure chickens don't eat chocolate or raw potato skins. Chickens need plenty of food and water. Use the passage in the picture below to decide the following questions.BEING A GARBAGE COLLECTOR, OR TRASH MAN, MIGHT LOOK APPEALING TO MANY YOUNG CHILDREN--ESPECIALLY BOYS. is the topic topic sentence main idea supporting detail Use the passage in the picture below to decide the following questions.THROUGH THE EYES OF A YOUNG CHILD, BEING A TRASH MAN CAN LOOK QUITE ATTRATIVE AND APPEALING is the topic topic sentence main idea supporting detail Use the passage in the picture below to decide the following questions.SOME GARBAGE COLLECTORS, CALLED "STEP RIDERS," GET TO ACTUALLY RIDE ON A STEP ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE GARBAGE TRUCK is the topic topic sentence main idea supporting detail Use the passage in the picture below to decide the following questions.GARBAGE COLLECTORS is the... topic topic sentence main idea supporting detail