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. Read the central idea of the section “Shock Wave” stated in the box below. Then check the
boxes next to the THREE details that support the central idea.
2. Read the details from the section “Rush to Help” listed below. In the box, complete the central
idea that these details support.
Detail 1: “Neighbors pulled each other from the burning wreckage of their homes. ”(p. 9)
Detail 2: “Buildings that still stood were quickly converted to hospitals.” (p. 9)
Detail 3: “By the afternoon, trains loaded with nurses, doctors, firefighters, and supplies were
streaming into Halifax.” (p. 9)
Core Skills Workout: Central Ideas and Details-LL
NONFICTION: “The Shattered Sky,” pages 4-10
November 2017
Central Idea:
The explosion of the Mont-Blanc was extremely powerful and destructive.
Directions: Follow the prompts below to explore the central ideas and supporting details in “The Shattered Sky.”
Name: ___________________________________________________ Date: ________________________
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THE LANGUAGE ARTS MAGAZINE
“In a fraction of a second, the Mont-Blanc was ripped to pieces.” (p. 8)
“ The explosion triggered an enormous wave that surged out of the harbor and crashed
through Dartmouth and Halifax, toppling more buildings and sweeping people away.” (p. 9)
“And one of Noble’s 13 siblings—his little brother Gordon—was missing.” (p. 9)
“Fortunately for Noble, the wave did not reach him.” (p. 9)
“Doors flew off hinges, trees snapped in two, windows shattered, and shards of glass shot
through the air like missiles.” (p. 9)
Central Idea:
The people of Halifax as well as Nova Scotia
