Did you know that inference is a crucial reading skill? On both standardized tests and college admission tests, students encounter questions after reading passages that require them to infer something that was expressed by the author but the answer can't be found specifically in the printed passage. Inference involves using what you know from reading a passage to be able to make a prediction about something you don't know. For example, look at the following sentence:
Sierra is on her way to Hayden's birthday party. With no more information, the reader should be able to infer that Sierra is carrying a present.
Look what can be inferred from reading the following passage:
Mom packed our swimsuits, towels, pajamas and tooth brushes. Dad put the bag and picnic basket in the car.
Although it is not said, it can be inferred that a family is going on a trip, and it involves going swimming, eating a picnic and staying overnight.
From first grade on, inference is the skill that makes reading comprehension possible. When parents are reading with their children, ask a lot of questions to give children practice in using inference.
Your children can get additional practice using this skill by reading our 30 new Two Word Inference Tales on the teacherspayteachers.com website.