Identify supporting details in informational texts
key notes :
What Are Supporting Details?
- Supporting details are pieces of information that provide evidence, examples, or explanations to back up the main idea of a text.
- They help clarify and expand on the main topic being discussed.
Why Are Supporting Details Important?
- They make the main idea clearer and more understandable.
- Supporting details provide proof and examples that make the information more reliable.
- They help readers connect with the topic and understand it in a deeper way.
How to Identify Supporting Details
- Step 1: Read the main idea or topic sentence. This sentence often tells what the paragraph is mainly about.
- Step 2: Look for specific information that relates to the main idea. This information can include:
- Examples: Specific cases that illustrate the point.
- Facts: Statements that can be proven true.
- Descriptions: Details that paint a clearer picture of the topic.
- Step 3: Pay attention to signal words that often introduce supporting details. Examples of these words include:
- For example, such as, in addition, also, because, furthermore.
Types of Supporting Details
- Facts: Information that is true and can be verified.
- Example: A polar bear’s fur is transparent and can appear white.
- Examples: Specific instances that help illustrate the main idea.
- Example: Many fruits, such as apples and bananas, are rich in vitamins.
- Statistics: Numerical data that supports the information presented.
- Example: According to a study, 75% of students improved their grades by studying regularly.
- Descriptions: Detailed explanations that provide more context.
- Example: The Amazon rainforest is home to thousands of species of plants and animals.
Examples of Supporting Details
- Main Idea: Reading is beneficial for students.
- Supporting Details:
- Reading improves vocabulary and language skills.
- It helps develop imagination and creativity.
- Studies show that regular reading can increase focus and concentration.
Tips for Finding Supporting Details
- Look for Visual Aids: Charts, graphs, and pictures often highlight supporting details.
- Identify Key Phrases: Pay attention to bolded or italicized words that might indicate important information.
- Read the Whole Section: Sometimes supporting details are spread out over several sentences, so read carefully.
let’s practice!
In the following text, a cat named Snowbell is talking with Stuart Little, a mouse. Select the detail that best shows Snowbell is trying to scare Stuart Little.
‘I should think you’d get all the exercise you want up there in the bathroom, banging around, waking all the rest of us up trying to get that water started so you can brush your teeth. Your teeth aren’t really big enough to brush anyway. Want to see a good set? Look at mine!’. . .
‘Very nice,’ said Stuart. ‘But mine are all right, too, even though they’re small . . . ‘