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Identifying the Main Idea in Fiction

A Grade 6 ELA worksheet focusing on identifying the main idea in fictional texts through various question types.

Grade 6 ELA ReadingReading Comprehension StrategiesIdentifying the Main IdeaIdentifying the Main Idea in Fiction
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Includes

2 TextMultiple ChoiceFill in the BlanksTrue / FalseShort AnswerMatching

Standards

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RL.6.2

Topics

ELAReading ComprehensionMain IdeaFictionGrade 6
9 sections · Free to use · Printable
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Identifying the Main Idea in Fiction

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Read each passage carefully and answer the questions that follow. Pay close attention to what the story is mostly about.

The Old Oak Tree

Elara loved the old oak tree in her backyard. It had stood there for over a hundred years, its branches reaching out like welcoming arms. Every summer, she would climb its sturdy trunk and find a comfortable spot to read her favorite books. The tree had seen generations of children play beneath its shade, heard countless secrets whispered into its leaves, and provided shelter for birds and squirrels alike. One day, a fierce storm swept through, threatening to uproot the ancient giant. Elara watched from her window, tears welling up in her eyes, fearing the worst. But when the sun rose the next morning, the old oak, though battered, still stood tall, a testament to its enduring strength and resilience. Elara ran outside, hugging its rough bark, grateful for her constant companion.

1. What is the main idea of 'The Old Oak Tree'?

a

Elara loves to read books in her backyard.

b

An old oak tree survives a storm and is cherished by a girl.

c

A storm causes damage to trees in Elara's town.

d

The importance of planting trees for future generations.

2. The main idea is usually found in the   or   of a story, or can be inferred by looking at the key details.

3. The main idea of a fictional story tells the reader what the story is  .

4. Supporting details are the most important part of finding the main idea.

T

True

F

False

The Secret Map

Leo found an old, faded map tucked inside a dusty book in his grandfather's attic. It showed a path winding through the Whispering Woods, ending at a large 'X' marked near a waterfall. Excitement bubbled within him. He convinced his best friend, Mia, to join him on an adventure to find what the map led to. They packed snacks, water, and a compass, ready for anything. The journey was tougher than they expected, with thorny bushes and slippery rocks, but they encouraged each other. Finally, after hours of searching, they reached the waterfall. Behind a curtain of falling water, they discovered a small, dry cave. Inside, nestled in a wooden box, was a collection of antique coins and a note from Leo's great-grandfather, thanking future adventurers for finding his hidden treasure. The real treasure, Leo realized, was the incredible journey and friendship they shared.

5. What is the main idea of 'The Secret Map'? Explain your answer using details from the story.

Match each term with its correct definition.

6. Main Idea

 

a. The central message or what the story is mostly about.

7. Supporting Details

 

b. Specific pieces of information that explain or prove the main idea.