WHAT IS AN INFERENCE?
What is an inference?
A smart guess based on clues in the text and what you already know.
Name two types of clues you can look for in a text to make inferences.
Any two of: what a character does (actions), what they say (dialogue), descriptions, emotions, or the setting.
What is a claim?
A statement that says what you believe is true; a position you take on a topic.
What is a reason in an argument?
An explanation of WHY your claim is true.
What is a conclusion in an argumentative paragraph?
A sentence that restates your claim in a new way to remind the reader what you believe.
True or False: An inference is something the author directly tells you in the text.
False. An inference is something you figure out by "reading between the lines."
Read this: "Marcus looked at the test paper. His hands were shaking. He put his pencil down and stared at the ceiling." What clue tells you he's nervous?
His hands are shaking. (Also accept: putting down pencil, staring at ceiling)
Which sentence is a claim?
A) "Video games exist."
B) "Video games help students think better."
C) "Some people play video games."
B. "Video games help students think better." (It takes a position.)
What is evidence?
Specific facts, quotes, or examples from the text that support your reason.
True or False: Your conclusion should introduce a completely new idea.
False. Your conclusion should restate your claim, not introduce new ideas.
What two things do you need to make an inference?
Clues from the text AND what you already know.
If a character is described as "slamming the door" and "stomping away," what can you infer about their mood?
They are angry, upset, or frustrated.
True or False: A claim must always be about your personal opinion.
False. A claim is a position or belief, but it can be about facts or ideas, not just personal opinions.
Complete this sentence: "A reason tells you _____, but evidence shows you _____."
"A reason tells you WHY, but evidence shows you PROOF" (or similar answer showing the difference).
If your claim is "Students should have less homework," what would be a good conclusion?
Any restatement, such as: "Schools should reduce homework so students can be healthier," "Less homework helps students succeed," "Homework should be cut to help students."
Read this: "Sarah walked in with wet hair and shivering." What can you infer?
Sarah probably got caught in the rain or just came from swimming/the pool. (Accept any reasonable inference with text support.)
Read this: "The gym was full of people. Music was playing. Everyone was dancing and smiling." What clue tells you people are happy?
They are dancing and smiling. (Also accept: music playing, full of people having fun)
Read this: "Homework is important because it helps students practice." Which part is the claim?
"Homework is important." (The claim is the main position; the reason comes after.)
Read this claim: "Art should be taught in schools." What would be a good reason?
Any reasonable reason, such as: "Art helps students be creative," "Art makes students feel happy," "Art teaches important skills.
Which sentence is the best conclusion?
A) "In conclusion, pizza is delicious."
B) "Therefore, schools should require art classes because they help students learn."
C) "I like sports."
B. It restates the claim and reminds the reader of the main argument.
Why is making inferences important when reading?
Because authors don't tell us everything. Inferences help us understand what's really happening in the story and what characters are really like.
What is the difference between a clue and an inference?
A clue is a detail from the text. An inference is what you figure out using that clue plus what you know.
Why is a claim important in an argumentative paragraph?
Because it tells the reader what you believe and what you're trying to convince them to believe.
If your reason is "Exercise is good for your health," what would be good evidence?
A specific example or fact, such as: "Exercise helps your heart work better," "Studies show exercise reduces stress," "People who exercise live longer."
Why do we need a conclusion at the end of an argumentative paragraph?
To remind the reader of your main claim and to wrap up your argument in a strong way.