Ready to rock the ParaPro Reading test? Our guide makes supporting details super clear, so you can ace questions with confidence!
What Are Supporting Details?
Supporting details are the facts, examples, or evidence that back up a main idea in a text. On the ParaPro test, you’ll read passages where you need to spot these details to answer questions about the main point. For instance, you might find “test scores rose from 65% to 80%” to prove improvement.
This skill helps you teach kids to dig into stories or data, making lessons engaging. It’s essential for paraprofessionals aiming to excel!
Why Supporting Details Matter
About 10-15 of the 30 reading questions involve finding supporting details, testing your ability to link evidence to ideas. A passage might say “Students enjoy reading,” with details like “90% finished their books” backing it up. In class, you’ll use this to help kids justify their answers, tying into the test’s classroom focus.
Types of Supporting Details
Here’s what you’ll see on the test, with tips to master them:
- Facts and Statistics: Numbers like “75% attendance” give solid proof. Tip: Look for percentages or dates.
- Examples: Stories like “Tom read 5 chapters” illustrate a point. Tip: Spot names or events.
- Descriptions: Details like “the room was quiet” add context. Tip: Note sensory words.
Mastering these makes test questions easier!
Reading and Analyzing Supporting Details
On the reading exam, you’ll need to identify details in passages to support a conclusion. Start by finding the main idea—ask, “What’s the key point?”—then hunt for evidence. Underline keywords like “because,” “for example,” or “data shows” to avoid missing clues. Double-check your pick to stay accurate!
Easy Steps to Find Supporting Details
Here’s how to nail supporting details like a pro:
- Read the main idea first to know what to look for.
- Scan for facts, examples, or data that match it.
- Connect the detail to the idea, like “This number proves it.”
- Explain it simply, as if to a student: “The text shows more here!”
- Think, “How would I explain this to a kid?” to stay clear.
Test tip: Focus on evidence—don’t guess without support!
Examples
Example 1: Class Reading Progress
Directions: Use the passage below to answer the question that follows.
The class improved in reading this month. Students read more books, with an average of 3 per child, and test scores went up from 65% to 80%.
Question: What detail best supports the improvement in reading?
- A) The teacher gave extra homework.
- B) The library opened new hours.
- C) The average books read was 3 per child.
- D) The classroom got new desks.
Answer: C) The average books read was 3 per child.
Explanation: The passage highlights increased book reading and test score rise, with “average of 3 per child” as a key detail. Other options lack direct evidence. Test tip: Look for numbers or examples tied to the main idea!
Example 2: Weekly Reading Trend
The class tracked reading progress weekly. Week 1: 20 books; Week 2: 22 books; Week 3: 25 books; Week 4: 28 books. The numbers grew steadily.
Question: What detail supports the trend of increasing reading? (Circle ‘trend’)
- A) The teacher was absent.
- B) Reading increased from 20 to 28 books.
- C) The school held a party.
- D) The bus was late.
Answer: B) Reading increased from 20 to 28 books.
Explanation: The text shows a steady rise, with “20 to 28 books” as the supporting detail. Other options don’t reflect the trend. Test tip: Circle ‘trend’ and look for steady growth!
Ready to test your skills? Try our supporting details quiz below to practice more!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find details fast on the test?
Skim for the main idea, then spot facts or examples. Tip: Underline “because” or numbers!
Are detail questions hard?
Not with practice! Focus on evidence, not opinions. Tip: Cross out unrelated answers!
How many detail questions are there?
About 10-15 out of 30 reading questions. Tip: Use our free practice tests!
Will this help me teach kids?
Yes! Guide students to find details in texts. Tip: Use real examples!
Where can I practice more?
Our site offers free ParaPro tests with detail questions. Try reading books too! Tip: Practice daily!