IREAD - Indiana Reading Evaluation and Determination Nonfiction: Main Idea & Details Questions and Answers

Question 1

Read the paragraph below.

Giraffes are the tallest mammals on Earth. Their long legs and necks help them reach leaves high up in trees, which are their favorite food. A giraffe's coat has a unique pattern of spots, much like a human's fingerprint. These spots help them blend in with their surroundings to hide from predators. Even with their great height, giraffes can run very fast when they need to.

What is the main idea of this paragraph?

Accepted Answer

Giraffes are tall mammals with special features.

Answer

Giraffes can run very fast.

Answer

Giraffes have unique spot patterns.

Answer

Giraffes like to eat leaves from tall trees.

Question 2

A student is reading a chapter in a science book about planets. The first sentence of a paragraph is: 'Mars is often called the Red Planet.' Which of the following sentences would MOST likely be a supporting detail in this paragraph?

Accepted Answer

The soil on Mars is red because it contains iron oxide, or rust.

Answer

Jupiter is the largest planet in our solar system.

Answer

Some planets, like Earth, have one moon.

Answer

Astronauts hope to one day travel to Mars.

Question 3

Which of the following best explains the relationship between a main idea and supporting details in a nonfiction text?

Accepted Answer

The main idea is the central point, and the details provide evidence or examples.

Answer

The main idea is an interesting fact, and the details are opinions.

Answer

The main idea and the details are all equally important facts.

Answer

The details are the most important part, and the main idea is just an introduction.

Question 4

Read the passage below.

(1) The monarch butterfly is a fascinating insect. (2) Every year, monarchs travel thousands of miles from the northern United States and Canada to Mexico for the winter. (3) This long journey is called a migration. (4) Along the way, they eat nectar from flowers to get the energy they need.

Which sentence from the passage states the main idea?

Accepted Answer

Sentence 1

Answer

Sentence 2

Answer

Sentence 3

Answer

Sentence 4

Question 5

A passage describes how to build a model airplane. It includes steps like gluing the wings, attaching the wheels, and painting the body. What would be the BEST title for this passage, representing its main idea?

Accepted Answer

How to Construct a Model Airplane

Answer

The History of Airplanes

Answer

Different Types of Glue

Answer

Flying Your New Toy

Question 6

Read the paragraph below.

Recycling is very important for our planet. When we recycle paper, we save trees from being cut down. Recycling plastic and metal means that factories don't have to use as much energy to make new items. This helps reduce pollution. Putting items in the recycling bin keeps them out of landfills, which are running out of space.

Which sentence is a supporting detail, NOT the main idea?

Accepted Answer

When we recycle paper, we save trees from being cut down.

Answer

Recycling is very important for our planet.

Answer

Everyone should try to recycle more.

Answer

Recycling helps the Earth in many ways.