Main Idea Graphic Organizers

Below you’ll find ten different printable main idea graphic organizers that you can use in the class or at home. A graphic organizer is a tool that students can use to better understand and organize their thoughts while reading or writing. It helps students to focus on the most important information (main idea) and identify the key points that support it (details). By breaking down the information into manageable chunks, students also develop stronger critical thinking skills and improve their ability to clearly communicate their ideas.

Main Idea and Details Worksheets

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Students imagine that the ice cream cone is the main idea and each scoop of ice cream represents a supporting detail. They will then write the main idea and supporting ideas in the blanks to the right.

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This is a simple worksheet where students write the main idea in the top box and any supporting details in the bottom box. Ask your student to write 2-3 details that support the main idea.

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This simple organizer includes four blanks for supporting details and is great for older students.

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For this worksheet, students imagine that a fish's spine is the main idea and each bone represents a supporting detail. This is a fun activity that helps students really visualize how supporting details are relevant and contribute to a clear and effective main idea.

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A simple graphic organizer. With this activity, students simply write the main idea and three connecting supporting details.

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Great for late elementary or middle school students, this organizer includes boxes students fill in with the main idea and details.

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Similar to the templates above, but a different style.

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Similar to the templates above, but a different style.

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Similar to the templates above, but a different style.

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A fun hot air balloon main idea graphic organizer.

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