02 Main ideas02 Main ideas.pptVIP

Chapter Two: Main Ideas “What’s the point?” People ask this question when they want to know a speaker or writer’s main idea. Determining the main idea, or point, is the most important key to good comprehension. What is the author’s point in this cartoon? The author’s point is that the marriage has problems. Notice that the wife supports her point with solid examples:  1. Her husband likes to spend money; she likes to save it. 2. He is a night person; she is a day person. 3. He likes sports; she hates sports. To find the main idea of a reading selection, ask yourself this question: “What is the point the author is trying to make?” What is the author’s point in the following paragraph? P51 School bullies have been around as long as there have been schools. Studies reveal several reasons why some children become bullies. Research shows that a certain combination of size and personality may be one factor. Bigger, more aggressive children are more likely to try to dominate their smaller, quieter peers. Another factor linked to bullying is overexposure to violent TV programs. By the time the average American child is ten years old, he or she has watched thousands of acts of violence, including assault and murder. Such exposure can lead to aggression and violence. Finally, exposure to real violence is a factor in bullying. Studies indicate that victims of bullies often turn into bullies themselves. Whether abused by family members or tormented by other kids, bullies typically learn their behavior from others. Look closely into the eyes of a bully, and you may be looking into the eyes of a former victim. Point: Studies reveal several reasons why some children become bullies. Think of the main idea as an “umbrella idea.” The main idea is the author’s general point; all the other material of the paragraph fits under it. That other material is made up of supporting details— specific evidence such as examples, causes, reasons, or facts. The diagram below shows t