Making Inferences

An inference is when you use clues from what you read, see, or experience, plus what you already know, to figure out something that is not directly stated.

Example

Text:
Maria slammed the door, threw her backpack on the floor, and stomped up the stairs without saying a word.

Question:
What can you infer about Maria’s mood?

Possible answers:
She is upset or frustrated.



Evidence:
She slammed the door, threw her backpack, and stomped away without speaking.

Inference Formula:

Clues (What you see/read) +
Background Knowledge (What you already know) = Inference

Common Inference Situations:

• Text-based inferences (reading between the lines)

• Visual inferences (images, body language)

• Real-world inferences (interpreting situations)