Infer It!
Jackson slammed his locker shut and sighed when he saw the math homework sheet. He slowly walked to class without talking to his friends.
How is Jackson probably feeling?
Frustrated, upset, or stressed.
Although the town council added more recycling bins downtown, litter continued to collect in parks and parking lots. Volunteers eventually organized weekly cleanups and educational campaigns to encourage residents to take more responsibility for public spaces.
What is the main idea?
Community action was needed because recycling bins alone did not solve the litter problem.
“Although the inventor faced years of criticism and failed experiments, she remained persistent and continued working toward her goal.”
What does persistent mean?
Continuing despite difficulties or not giving up.
A poster says, “Join the school volleyball team today! Make friends, stay active, and have fun.”
What is the author’s purpose?
To persuade.
Although Liam insisted he had forgotten about the science competition, he continued checking the results website throughout the evening and immediately answered every notification on his phone. When his sister asked why he cared so much, he shrugged and claimed it “wasn’t a big deal anyway.”
What does Liam’s behaviour reveal about him?
He actually cares a lot about the competition even though he pretends not to.
The dog scratched at the door, wagged its tail, and barked excitedly when Maya grabbed the leash.
What can you infer?
The dog wants to go for a walk.
At first, many students complained when the school limited cellphone use during class. After several weeks, however, teachers noticed more participation in discussions and higher completion rates on assignments.
What is the main idea?
Limiting cellphone use improved student focus and participation.
“The once-thriving factory now stood desolate, with broken windows and rusted machinery scattered throughout the property.”
What does desolate mean?
Empty, abandoned, or bleak.
A science article explains how volcanoes form and erupt over time.
What is the author’s purpose?
To inform.
The article argued that social media allows people to stay connected across long distances; however, it also suggested that constant online interaction reduces the quality of face-to-face communication. Researchers cited studies showing that many teenagers report feeling lonely despite spending hours communicating online.
What is the author’s main message?
Social media can connect people, but it mainly negatively affects real-life relationships.
Ella checked the weather app three times before leaving home. She packed boots, gloves, and an extra sweater into her backpack.
What can you infer?
It is probably going to be cold or snowy.
Scientists studying bees discovered that some colonies are shrinking due to habitat loss and pesticide use. Since bees pollinate many crops humans rely on, researchers warn that protecting bee populations is important for food production.
What is the main idea?
Protecting bees is important because they are essential to food production.
“Although the candidate sounded confident during the debate, his responses were often ambiguous, leaving voters uncertain about his actual position on several issues.”
What does ambiguous mean?
Unclear or open to more than one interpretation.
A comic strip tells a funny story about a cat stealing pizza from the kitchen counter.
What is the author’s purpose?
to entertain.
As the storm intensified, the captain ordered the crew to remain calm and continue working. Although several sailors later admitted they had been terrified, none questioned his instructions during the crisis.
What can the reader infer about the captain?
The captain is respected and trusted by the crew.
Marcus reread the text message three times before putting his phone face down on the table. During dinner, he barely spoke and kept checking the clock every few minutes.
What can you infer?
Marcus is worried, anxious, or waiting for something important.
When the old arena closed, many residents worried the town would lose an important gathering place. Local businesses donated supplies, volunteers gave up weekends, and within a year a new community centre opened with programs for all ages.
What is the main idea?
The community worked together to replace an important local gathering place.
“Historians argued that the emperor’s decision was inevitable because years of economic decline and political unrest had already weakened the empire.”
What does inevitable mean?
Certain to happen or unavoidable.
An advertisement says, “Try the newest gaming headset for the ultimate experience!”
What is the author’s purpose?
To persuade
The historian described the explorer as “ambitious to the point of recklessness,” noting that he repeatedly ignored warnings from experienced guides before leading his team into dangerous conditions. Although some admired his determination, others believed his decisions unnecessarily placed lives at risk.
Which statement best summarizes the passage?
The explorer’s ambition was both admired and criticized because it often led to dangerous choices.
When the museum announced plans to replace the historic theatre with a modern glass entrance, many residents signed petitions opposing the change. Although city officials argued the renovation would attract tourists, protesters continued gathering outside council meetings each week.
What can you infer about the residents?
The residents strongly value preserving the town’s history and traditions.
For years, explorers believed the desert region was nearly impossible to survive in because of the extreme heat and lack of water. However, researchers later discovered that Indigenous groups had developed farming systems, trade routes, and shelters perfectly adapted to the environment.
What is the main idea?
Indigenous groups successfully adapted to harsh desert environments despite outsiders believing survival was impossible.
“Rather than reacting impulsively, the lawyer remained composed and methodically questioned each witness before presenting her final argument.”
What does methodically mean?
In a careful, organized, and systematic way.
A biography explains the life and achievements of Terry Fox.
What is the author’s purpose?
to inform.
When the company announced it would replace several employees with automated technology, executives emphasized the increase in efficiency and profit. Workers, however, argued that years of loyalty were being disregarded in favour of cutting costs. The debate quickly spread online, where people disagreed over whether technological progress justified the loss of jobs.
What is the central conflict in this passage?
The conflict between technological progress/profit and protecting workers’ jobs.