TEXT EVIDENCE
The text says: “Maria grabbed an umbrella before walking outside. Dark clouds covered the sky.”
What can you infer?
It is probably going to rain.
It Says: “The boy put on sunscreen and grabbed a towel before leaving the house.”
I Say: People usually use sunscreen and towels when ______.
Going swimming or to the beach/pool.
What is textual evidence?
Information or details from the text that support an answer or inference.
If the text directly states that “Marcus was exhausted,” is that explicit or implicit information?
Explicit.
You see someone carrying an umbrella while rain is falling. What is the most logical inference?
They are using the umbrella to stay dry.
The text says: “Jake's hands were shaking as he walked toward the stage. He kept looking at the audience.”
What can you infer about Jake?
Jake is probably nervous.
It Says: “Mrs. Lee turned off the lights, locked the classroom door, and walked toward the parking lot.”
I Say: Teachers usually do these things when ______.
They are finished for the day and leaving school.
Which is stronger evidence?
A. “I think the character is angry.”
B. “The character slammed the door and clenched his fists.”
B.
If a story says, “Marcus yawned repeatedly, rubbed his eyes, and fell asleep at his desk,” and you conclude he is tired, is that explicit or implicit?
Implicit.
The lights are off, the doors are locked, and no cars are in the parking lot. What is a logical inference?
The building is probably closed.
The text says: “The sidewalk was covered in snow. Cars moved slowly down the road, and people wore heavy coats.”
What can you infer about the weather?
It is very cold/winter weather, and there may be icy or dangerous road conditions.
It Says: “Sam looked at the clock. It was 7:55. He grabbed his backpack and ran toward the bus stop.”
I Say: School probably starts around 8:00.
And So: What can you infer?
Sam is probably running because he is about to be late for school.
The text says: “Liam's stomach growled loudly. He had skipped breakfast and lunch.”
What evidence supports the inference that Liam is hungry?
His stomach growled and he skipped breakfast and lunch.
What does explicit information mean?
Explained in detail - a lot of information
A student says, “The dog barked, so it must be angry.”
Is this a strong inference? Why or why not?
No. Dogs bark for many reasons. More evidence is needed to determine why the dog barked.
A character walks into the kitchen, sees an empty cookie jar, and looks at her younger brother. Her brother quickly hides his hands behind his back.
What can you infer?
The brother probably ate the cookies.
It Says: “The restaurant was packed. Every table was full, and a line stretched out the door.”
I Say: When a restaurant is packed, it probably means ______.
And So: What can you infer about the restaurant?
It is very popular or busy.
Why should you use evidence when making an inference?
Evidence shows that your inference is based on information from the text rather than being just a guess.
What does implicit information mean?
Very vague - Information that is suggested or understood but not directly stated.
A character is wearing a backpack, walking into a building with classrooms, and carrying several books.
What is the most logical inference?
The character is probably a student going to school.
Explain the Inference Equation and why both parts are necessary.
Textual evidence + prior knowledge = inference.
It Says: “Ava stared at the test paper. She sighed, erased several answers, and looked around at classmates who were already turning in their tests.”
I Say: Someone who behaves this way may be ______.
And So: What can you infer about Ava?
Ava is probably struggling with the test or unsure of her answers.
A student says, “The character is scared because I just know he is.”
What is missing from the student's inference?
Textual evidence and reasoning.
Why do readers need to make inferences when reading?
Authors do not always state everything directly. Readers use clues, prior knowledge, and reasoning to understand information that is implied.
What is the difference between a logical inference and a random guess?
A logical inference is supported by evidence and reasoning. A random guess is not supported by enough evidence.