The Inference Equation
What two things do readers combine to make an inference?
Readers combine text evidence with what they already know.
In the organizer, which step asks you to find exact words, actions, or details from the passage?
“It Says.”
In “The Rib Lineup,” what can you infer about Uncle Dre’s ribs? Give one clue from the passage.
His ribs are highly anticipated or delicious. Evidence: Everyone lined up before the side dishes were on the table.
In “The Crease Walk,” what can you infer about Lamar’s sneakers? Cite one clue.
Lamar likely has new sneakers he does not want to crease. Evidence: He walks stiffly and others call out, “Protect the crease!”
In “Court Call-Out,” what can you infer Rasheed intends to do? Cite one clue.
Rasheed intends to start a pickup basketball game. Evidence: He is dressed for basketball and calls “Check!”
In the inference equation, what does “schema” mean?
“Schema” means the reader’s background knowledge or life experience.
What does the “I Say” step add to the inference process?
“I Say” adds relevant background knowledge or reasoning.
In “The Pre-Meal Prayer,” what can you infer about Grandma’s table rules? Which action supports your answer?
Respecting the prayer before eating is expected. Evidence: Deon pulled his hand back and bowed his head after Grandma glared at him.
In “The Puddle Incident,” what can you infer about Kiki’s priorities? Use an action from the passage as evidence
Kiki cares more about cleaning her sneaker than her jeans. Evidence: She cleans the shoe while leaving the dirt on her clothing.
In “Domino Slamming,” what can you infer about the energy of the game? Use two details.
The game is loud and competitive. Evidence: Players slam dominoes, the sound carries across the court, and someone shouts.
A passage says a character’s hands are shaking as they open an envelope. What must you combine with this clue to infer how the character feels?
Combine the shaking hands with what you know about how people may act when nervous, afraid, or excited.
A passage says a character’s hands are shaking as they open an envelope. What must you combine with this clue to infer how the character feels?
Combine the shaking hands with what you know about how people may act when nervous, afraid, or excited.
In “The Country Crock Mystery,” what can you infer about how Maya’s family uses the tubs? Cite two details.
The family reuses the tubs to store leftovers. Evidence: The tubs held collard greens, sweet potato pie filling, and dirty rice.
In “Color Coordination,” what can you infer about Chris’s approach to dressing? Cite two matching details.
Chris intentionally coordinates his outfit. Evidence: His hoodie and laces match, and his cap has a matching logo.
In “Frozen Cup Run,” what can you infer about the kids’ preference for Ms. Jenkins’ treats? Cite the choice they make.
The kids prefer Ms. Jenkins’ frozen cups. Evidence: They run past the ice cream truck to buy her treats.
A reader concludes that a character is worried because they pace and keep checking the clock. Which part is text evidence, and which part is the inference?
The text evidence is that the character paces and checks the clock. The inference is that the character is worried.
Using Marcus’s details, what could “I Say” be, and what inference could follow?
I Say”: People may look disorganized and breathe hard after rushing. “And So”: Marcus likely hurried to class.
In “The Approval Scoop,” what can you infer about Grandma’s opinion of Keyon’s girlfriend? Explain how Grandma’s actions support your inference.
Grandma likes or welcomes the girlfriend. Evidence: She smiled and served her extra dressing without asking.
In “Pre-Wear Protection,” what can you infer about Kayla’s sneaker-care habits? Explain how the timing of her purchases supports your inference.
Kayla plans ahead to protect her sneakers. Evidence: She buys crease shields and water-repellent spray before wearing the shoes outside.
In “Block Party Setup,” what can you infer is happening on the street? Use two pieces of evidence.
A community block party is likely taking place. Evidence: The street is blocked off, large speakers are set up, and neighbors bring food and tables.
A reader says, “The character is angry,” but gives no passage clue. What is missing, and why does that make the inference weak?
The reader needs a specific passage clue. Without evidence, the claim may be a guess rather than a supported inference.
Use the “It Says, I Say, And So” strategy to explain why Marcus likely rushed into class. Include a passage clue and your reasoning.
“It says Marcus arrived as the bell rang, gasping, with an unzipped backpack and an untied sneaker. I know people may look this way after rushing. And so, Marcus likely ran to class because he was almost late.”
In “Backyard Energy,” what can you infer about the gathering’s atmosphere? Use two details and explain how they support your inference.
The gathering seems joyful and relaxed. Evidence may include people sitting in lawn chairs, listening to music, and children playing in the sprinkler.
In “Saturday 9:00 AM Drop,” what can you infer Andre is trying to do on his phone? Use at least two clues to support your answer.
Andre is trying to buy a limited-edition sneaker release. Evidence: He sets alarms for 8:55, uses the sneaker app at 9:00, and celebrates the “Got ’Em!” message.
In “Streetlight Signal,” what can you infer about the family’s curfew rule? Explain how Malik’s action supports your inference.
The family uses the streetlights as a signal to go indoors. Evidence: Malik heads inside as soon as the lights come on, without being called.