Kentucky Paraeducator Assessment (KPA) Practice Test

What is a supporting idea in writing?

1. A main theme of a text

2. A fact that provides more information about a main idea

3. An opinion expressed by the author

4. A transition word

The correct answer is: A fact that provides more information about a main idea

A supporting idea in writing serves to provide additional information that reinforces and clarifies the main idea or theme of a text. It often consists of facts, explanations, or examples that help to validate or illustrate the primary argument being made. By elaborating on the main idea, supporting ideas enable readers to gain a deeper understanding of the content and the author's message. When analyzing the other options, while a main theme represents the central point or underlying message of a text, it does not provide the detailed evidence or elaboration offered by supporting ideas. An opinion expressed by the author may contribute to the writing, but it does not necessarily serve as a supporting idea unless it is backed by reasons or examples that substantiate it. Transition words, on the other hand, are linguistic tools that help connect ideas and improve the flow of writing, but they do not themselves convey supporting details about the main idea.