Reading Inference
Learn to read between the lines, find implied meaning, and use clues in the text to draw conclusions.
What Is Inference?
Inference means working out something that is not directly stated in the text. Authors do not always tell you everything. Instead, they leave clues and expect you to "read between the lines" using evidence from the text combined with your own knowledge.
Literal Reading
Finding information that is directly stated in the text.
"The boy wore a red jumper." = He wore a red jumper.
Inferential Reading
Working out meaning from clues in the text.
"The boy pulled his jumper tighter and shivered." = It was cold.
The Inference Equation
Types of Inference
You can make inferences about many different things when reading. Here are the most common types:
Character Feelings
How a character feels based on their actions and words.
"She slammed the door and threw her bag on the floor." = She is angry or frustrated.
Setting and Atmosphere
What the place is like based on descriptive details.
"Cobwebs hung from the ceiling and dust covered every surface." = The place is old and abandoned.
Character Relationships
How characters relate to each other through dialogue and interaction.
"'Do your homework now,' Mum said firmly." = A parent giving an instruction to a child.
Author's Message
The deeper meaning or theme the author wants you to understand.
A story where a character learns to be kind to others = The author's message is about the importance of kindness.
How to Make Inferences
Follow these steps to make strong inferences when reading:
Read carefully
Pay close attention to word choices, actions, and descriptions.
Find the clues
Identify specific words or phrases that hint at something not directly stated.
Connect to your knowledge
Think about what you already know about people, places, and situations.
State your inference with evidence
Use the sentence starter: "I think... because the text says..."
Key Vocabulary
Inference
A conclusion you reach based on evidence and reasoning, not something directly stated.
Implied
Suggested or hinted at without being directly stated in the text.
Evidence
The specific words, phrases, or details from the text that support your inference.
Literal
The exact, surface-level meaning of the words, directly stated in the text.
Worked Examples
Example 1: Inferring a Character's Feelings
Inference: Tom is feeling sad or upset. The clues are "stared at his shoes" (avoiding eye contact), "shoulders slumped" (body language), and "ignoring the laughter" (not wanting to join in).
Example 2: Inferring the Setting
Inference: The setting is a library. The clues are "shelves" with "colourful spines" (books), "hush" (quiet environment), and "rustle of turning pages" (people reading).
Example 3: Inferring the Author's Message
Inference: The author's message is that hard work and sacrifice pay off. The clues are "practising alone," "missing out," and the reward of scoring the winning goal.
Knowledge Check
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Key Concepts Summary
- ●Inference means working out something that is not directly stated, using clues from the text plus your own knowledge.
- ●You can infer character feelings, settings, relationships, and the author's message.
- ●Always support your inference with evidence from the text using sentence starters like "I think... because..."
- ●Literal reading finds what is stated directly; inferential reading finds what is implied or hinted at.