Try It

Resume reading the storyopens in new window on page 649 and stop at the break (shown with a series of asterisks) on page 651. As you read, continue to take notes by highlighting or underlining important details in the text. Also, notice how the central idea develops over the course of the story. As you read, ask yourself the following questions:

  • What are some descriptive details the narrator uses to show the reader the narrator’s situation and environment?
  • How is the central idea expressed through the characters, setting, language, and point of view?
  • What are the repeated images, words, or expressions in the story?
  • How does the central idea change or how does it continue to develop?
Magnifying glass focusing on the Central Idea

Specific details in a story can help to determine its central idea.



In the activity below, identify the central ideas of “The Yellow Wallpaper.”