teaching resource

Finding the Main Idea - Graphic Organizer Templates

  • Updated

    Updated:  06 Jun 2023

Teach students how to find the main idea of a text using one of these one-page graphic organizers.

  • Editable

    Editable:  Google Slides

  • Non-Editable

    Non-Editable:  PDF

  • Pages

    Pages:  6 Pages

  • Curriculum
  • Grades

    Grades:  3 - 6

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teaching resource

Finding the Main Idea - Graphic Organizer Templates

  • Updated

    Updated:  06 Jun 2023

Teach students how to find the main idea of a text using one of these one-page graphic organizers.

  • Editable

    Editable:  Google Slides

  • Non-Editable

    Non-Editable:  PDF

  • Pages

    Pages:  6 Pages

  • Curriculum
  • Grades

    Grades:  3 - 6

Teach students how to find the main idea of a text using one of these one-page graphic organizers.

Main Idea Graphic Organizer Templates

Use these simple main idea graphic organizers when searching a piece of text for the main idea and its supporting detail. Printing this template and putting it in a clear plastic sleeve means your students can use a whiteboard maker and use the template repeatedly.

Each template includes a spot for the main idea and three spots for students to put in the supporting detail for the text’s main idea. This encourages students to think about the main idea and show their understanding by writing down three details supporting the provided text’s main idea.

The following templates are included:

  • 3 x basic templates with boxes
  • 3 x themed templates – spider web, ice cream and cloud and raindrops

Why Use a Graphic Organizer

Using a graphic organizer is an effective instructional strategy that can greatly benefit children in numerous ways. Firstly, graphic organizers help students visually organize their thoughts and ideas, providing a clear structure for their thinking process. This visual representation enhances their understanding of concepts, promotes critical thinking, and fosters meaningful connections between different pieces of information.

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Use the drop-down menu to choose between the PDF and editable Google Slide versions of this resource.


This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a teacher in Michigan and a Teach Starter collaborator.


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