INFERENCE

Observations occur when we can see something happening. In contrast, inferences are what we figure out based on an experience. Helping students understand when information is implied, or not directly stated, will improve their skill in drawing conclusions and making inferences. These skills will be needed for all sorts of school assignments, including reading, science and social studies. Inferential thinking is a complex skill that will develop over time and with experience.

Why is inference important?

• Inference is a "foundational skill" — a prerequisite for higher-order thinking and 21st century skills
• Inference skills are used across the curriculum, including English language arts, science and social studies.
• Inference is about discovering that there is not a ‘correct’ answer.

Family Activities for Teaching About Making Inferences

 “A picture is worth a thousand words.”

Look through old family albums and photographs together. Have your child observe what a person in a picture is doing and look at his or her facial expressions and body language to infer how the person felt at that particular moment.

Retelling

Pick a story together and find a paragraph that describes how a character feels. Have your child retell the paragraph stating the feelings directly. How are the paragraphs different? Why might an author show how a character acts instead of telling how a character feels? Point out that details bring stories to life and engage readers and spark imaginations.