Main Idea

For main idea grade levels met to discuss what is expected. Main idea is hard for kids. We came up with these expectations.

No how or what...meaning you can start it with It's about how....or It's about what....After examining a number of work samples we found that it limits kids and they don't put the main idea into a smooth sentence that actually explains the main idea. We get a lot of..it's about how dolphins live, etc.

Also, no starting with the main idea is....  After looking at several entries we found again that it limits kids.  Instead, we decided that they need to state the main idea in a smooth sentence.  First, they need to determine WHAT and then the SO WHAT.  Then the evidence.  At this point, we came up with this across grade levels.

In 3rd grade: Main idea in a smooth sentence with 1 detail, can use a chart if they still need too. (No how or why)

In 4th grade: Main idea in a smooth sentence, 2 details.(No how or why)

In 5th grade: Main idea in a smooth sentence, 2 details, and written in a paragraph. (No how or why)