Reading Comprehension | Mini Lesson
Students will learn how to identify the main idea of a short passage and use key details to prove their thinking. The lesson uses a short read-aloud, guided practice, and partner talk to build comprehension skills.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| main idea | What the text is mostly about. |
| supporting details | Small pieces of information that tell more about the main idea. |
| comprehension | Understanding what you read. |
| evidence | Words or details from the text that support an answer. |
Say: "Today we will read like detectives. Good readers look for the main idea and the details that help prove it." Briefly review that the main idea is what the passage is mostly about.
Listen and repeat the key idea. Turn and talk about what the word 'detail' means in a text.
Read a short paragraph aloud once. Think aloud: "I notice this sentence is repeated in different ways. That helps me find what the paragraph is mostly about." Underline 2-3 details and write the main idea in a simple sentence.
Track the text and watch how the teacher uses details to find the main idea.
Read a second short paragraph. Ask students to help identify the main idea. Prompt with questions: "What is this mostly about? Which words or sentences helped you decide?" Record student responses on the board.
Share answers, point to important words, and help list supporting details.
Direct partners to restate the main idea in their own words and name one detail that supports it.
Turn and talk with a partner, then share one idea with the class if called on.
Give one oral question or a brief exit prompt: "Tell me the main idea and one detail that supports it." Listen for accurate responses and correct as needed.
Respond orally or on a sticky note with the main idea and one supporting detail.
Review: "Good readers use details to figure out the main idea." Invite students to say one new thing they learned about reading comprehension.