Inference
A character checks the clock every few minutes and taps their foot while waiting. What can you infer?
The character is anxious or impatient.
The puppy was reluctant to enter the water, pulling back on its leash. What does the word reluctant mean?
Unwilling or hesitant
A character returns a lost wallet even though no one is watching. What does this reveal about the character?
The character is honest / has integrity.
A biography begins with childhood, then adulthood, then achievements.
Chronological
A story shows a character admitting a mistake and making things right.
Taking responsibility is important.
Marcus folded the letter carefully and tucked it into his drawer without responding.” What can you infer?
He is avoiding responding or unsure how to reply.
Her explanation was brief, giving only the most necessary details. What is the meaning of the word brief?
Short or not detailed
A character refuses help from others, even when struggling. What trait does this BEST show?
Pride or independence (may also suggest stubbornness)
A passage explains pollution and then describes its effects on animals.
Cause and effect
A character practices daily and improves over time.
Practice leads to improvement.
A character laughs along with others but avoids eye contact and quickly leaves the room. What can you infer?
The character feels uncomfortable or doesn’t truly find it funny.
The teacher’s tone was stern, making the class immediately quiet. What is the meaning of the word stern?
Serious or strict
At the beginning of the story, a character is shy and avoids others. By the end, they confidently lead a group. What does this show?
The character has developed or changed (character growth).
A text explains two types of energy and highlights similarities and differences.
Compare and contrast
A character judges someone quickly but later realizes they were wrong.
Don’t judge others too quickly.
“The garden was overgrown, weeds choking the flowers that once bloomed brightly.” What can you infer beyond the setting?
Neglect has occurred; something once cared for has been abandoned.
The scientist made a precise measurement, ensuring every detail was exact. What is the meaning of the word precise?
Exact or accurate
A character says they are not afraid, but they hesitate before opening the door and take a deep breath. What does this reveal?
The character feels fear but is trying to be brave.
An article introduces a problem (water shortage) and then lists possible solutions.
Problem and solution
A story shows that working together leads to better outcomes than working alone.
Cooperation leads to success.
A character insists “I’m fine” while clenching their fists and speaking sharply. What is the BEST inference?
The character is upset but trying to hide it.
His comment was sarcastic, though his words sounded polite at first. What is the meaning of the word sarcastic?
Meant the opposite in a mocking or ironic way
How do a character’s actions MOST strongly contribute to understanding them, compared to their words?
Actions reveal true feelings and intentions, which may differ from what the character says.
Why might an author choose a compare and contrast structure instead of description?
To help readers understand similarities and differences between ideas.
How is theme different from main idea?
Theme is a lesson or message, while main idea is what the text is mostly about.