Inferring

Good readers can combine their background knowledge with clues from the text to predict, conclude, make judgements, and interpret. This formula is helpful for students:  BK + TC = I         (Background Knowledge + Text Clues = Inferring)

Proficient readers:

  • make predictions about text and confirm their predictions as they read
  • may read more slowly, reread, talk about their thinking, write, or draw to better understand the content
  • revise their inferences based on the interpretations of other readers

Sample Lessons:

Anchor Charts:

inferring

prediction-chart

Predictions are an inference forward in the text.

owi-chart

This OWI chart was done using Van Allsburg's book
"The Mysteries of Harris Burdick"

inferring-words

This class used their schema, pictures, and rereading to
infer the meaning of unknown words. They confirmed (C) some
inferences but others had to be researched.

Forms and Resources:

Texts for Teaching Inferring:

  • Fly Away Home by Eve Bunting
  • Grandfather Twilight by Barbara Berger
  • How Many Days to America? by Eve Bunting
  • If You Listen by Charlotte Zolotow
  • Oliver Button Is a Sissy by Tomie dePaola
  • The Royal Bee by Frances Park and Ginger Park
  • Something Beautiful by Sharon Dennis Wyeth
  • Where Are You Going, Manyoni? by Catherine Stock
  • Winter Fox by Catherine Stock
  • The Stranger by Chris Van Allsburg
  • The Sweetest Fig by Chris Van Allsburg
  • Two Bad Ants by Chris Van Allsburg
  • The Wreck of the Zephyr by Chris Van Allsburg
  • Bad Day at Riverbend by Chris Van Allsburg

Comprehension Resources:

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