Authors of informational texts usually have one important main idea, or central idea that they want readers to know.

The topic of a text is the person or thing the text is about.

The central idea is the most important idea or point about the topic.

Good readers determine the central idea of a text by first figuring out the topic of the text and then by paying attention to supporting evidence. Supporting evidence is small pieces of information, or details, that tell more about the central idea.

These details may be facts or examples.

Clues about the topic are often given in the title, cover pictures, or even the pictures within the text.

As you read, ask questions such as:

• What questions do I have about the title?
• What details in the photos are important?
• Based on the title and photos, what might the text be about?

You will identify the central idea when you read the personal narrative, We Are Super Citizens (in your online textbook, click Module 1, then click the Contents menu at the top left of your browser, and click the selection title).

You may discuss the questions below with someone

Parent/Guardian: Check the student's responses with the answer key

, Reading: Central Idea (1.1.1).

1. What is the topic of the text?
2. Say the words on page 12 that tell why Bailey would be a good therapy dog.
3. Do you think Bailey will make a good therapy dog? What evidence lets you know?