A central idea of a text is one of the main points the author is making.
(Sometimes a central idea is called a main idea.)
A central idea can always be supported with details from the text.
Central Ideas and Details
1. Reread the section “Civil War. ” Which statement below BEST expresses the central idea of this
section?
A Four major groups are fighting for control of Syria.
B The civil war in Syria has disrupted the lives of many Syrians.
C The Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) is a terrorist organization.
D Many of Aleppo’s factories and shops have been destroyed.
2. Read the central idea of the section “Fear and Chaos” that is stated in the box below. Then read
the lines from the article listed under it. Which detail does NOT support the central idea?
A “From 2015 to 2016, at least 8,000 people died attempting this crossing.” (p. 7)
B “And they have camped out along the borders of Austria, Hungary, and Slovenia, hoping
desperately to be allowed through.” (p. 7)
C “They have piled into leaky boats, attempting to make it across the treacherous Mediterranean
Sea to the shores of Greece and Italy.” (p. 7)
D “The war in Syria has created one of the worst humanitarian crises in decades.” (p. 6)
I chose _________ because _______________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________________________
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Core Skills Workout: Central Ideas and Details-HL
NONFICTION: “From War to America,” pages 4–9
September 2017
Central Idea:
The journey to a new country can be difficult and dangerous for Syrian refugees.
Directions: Follow the prompts below to explore the central ideas and supporting details in “From War to America.”
Name: ___________________________________________________ Date: ________________________
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