SSAT Elementary Level Reading

A friendly introduction to reading comprehension skills for the SSAT Elementary Level.

Understanding Main IdeasFinding DetailsUnderstanding Vocabulary in Context
Making InferencesIdentifying Author's PurposeSequencing Events
Reading for Fun and LearningUsing Reading Skills in Everyday LifeSharing What You Read
Skimming and ScanningAnswering Multiple-Choice Questions
Understanding Main I...Finding DetailsUnderstanding Vocabu...Making InferencesIdentifying Author's...Sequencing EventsReading for Fun and ...Using Reading Skills...Sharing What You Rea...Skimming and Scannin...Answering Multiple-C...
Basic Concepts

Finding Details

What are Details?

Details are the small pieces of information that support or explain the main idea. They help paint a clearer picture and make the story or article interesting.

How to Spot Details

  • Look for facts, descriptions, or examples.
  • Find words that tell who, what, when, where, why, or how.
  • Ask yourself, "What proves or explains the main idea?"

Why Details Matter

Details help you answer questions about what you read and make you a better reader.

Real-World Connections

You use details when you remember what you did on a field trip or tell your friend about your favorite movie scene.

Examples

  • The story said the puppy was small, brown, and had a wagging tail—these are details.

  • The passage explained that plants need sunlight, water, and soil to grow—these are supporting details.

In a Nutshell

Details give more information and support the main idea.

Key Terms

Fact
A true piece of information.
Example
A specific case that shows what is meant.
Next
Understanding Vocabulary in Context