Which of the following best describes the difference between a topic and a central/main idea? (1 point)
Responses
A central idea is the subject and is usually short, whereas the topic gives the reader lots of extra information.
A central idea is the subject and is usually short, whereas the topic gives the reader lots of extra information.
A topic is the subject, whereas the central idea is what the author wants the reader to know about the topic.
A topic is the subject, whereas the central idea is what the author wants the reader to know about the topic.
A central idea includes many important details about the topic.
A central idea includes many important details about the topic.
A topic helps to introduce the central idea.
A topic helps to introduce the central idea.
The best description of the difference between a topic and a central/main idea is:
A topic is the subject, whereas the central idea is what the author wants the reader to know about the topic. A topic helps to introduce the central idea.
The correct answer is: A topic is the subject, whereas the central idea is what the author wants the reader to know about the topic.
To understand the difference between a topic and a central/main idea, you need to know that a topic refers to the general subject of a text or a passage. It is often stated in a broad or general way. On the other hand, a central or main idea is the specific point that the author is trying to convey about the topic. It is a focused statement that captures the key message or purpose of the text.
To identify the topic of a text, you should look for recurring words or phrases that indicate the subject matter. It is usually mentioned in the introduction or the opening sentences. For example, if a paragraph discusses the benefits of exercise, then the topic would be exercise.
To identify the central/main idea of a text, you should ask yourself what the author is trying to communicate about the topic. It is often found in the thesis statement or the concluding sentences. It summarizes the key points or arguments made throughout the text and provides a specific focus on the topic. For example, if a paragraph about the benefits of exercise concludes with the statement "Regular exercise improves cardiovascular health and overall well-being," then the central idea would be that exercise is beneficial for cardiovascular health and well-being.
Understanding the distinction between a topic and a central/main idea is important for correctly comprehending and analyzing written texts. By identifying the topic and central/main idea, you can gain a better understanding of the author's message and the overall purpose of the passage.