Inference and Prediction “Inferring is the bedrock of comprehension, not only in reading. We infer in many realms. Our life clicks along more smoothly if we can read the world as well as text.” ~Stephanie Harvey, Strategies that Work Play Pyramid game prior to introduction of inference/prediction Show books for inference information.

GLE 2.1.5 (W) Use before, during & after reading strategies to make, confirm and revise predictions and inferences. Remind staff that all have copies of the GLEs in kid friendly terms

What is inference? The “crack in the text” A type of conclusion drawn from careful consideration of the author’s language, in light of one’s beliefs, knowledge, and experience. A weaving together of textual information and one’s background knowledge, distinct from a conclusion, which is made from only textual information. An indexing process where readers gather questions or clues that point to a concluding idea. The process of creating personal meaning from text, involving a combination of what is read with relevant prior knowledge (schema). The reader’s unique interpretation of text is the product of this blending. A type of higher-order thinking skill that encourages deep digesting of what has been read, by sifting through evidence in the text and beyond.

Predicting Prediction is considered to be “forward inferring”. The handmaiden of predictability is prior experience. Proficient readers make predictions smoothly and without much thought, then confirm or disconfirm them based on continued reading. Scientists make careful and thoughtful predictions and adjust them accordingly, depending on the result of their studies. Mathematicians predict, generalize, and estimate all through their reading and studying. Inferring is looking back and predicting is looking forward. Inferring is harder because you have to be more precise. Predicting is something you can check your accuracy on in further reading , but inferring is not as easy.

Connections + Clues = Inference To Infer is to build meaning To infer you must dig for clues

How do I Infer? Question as I read to draw conclusions, Make predictions and reflect on my reading. When the author does not answer my questions I must infer… Maybe… I think… It could be… It’s because… Perhaps… It means that… I’m guessing…

Inference GLE 2.1.5 Grades 6 and 7 Make, confirm, and revise prediction based on prior knowledge and evidence from the text. Cite passages from text to confirm or defend predictions and inferences Select, from multiple choices, a prediction or inference that could be made from the text. Organize information to support a prediction or inference in a self-created graphic organizer to enhance comprehension of text

Inference GLE 2.1.5 Grade 8 Make inferences based on implicit and explicit information drawn from text and provide justification for those inferences. Make, confirm, and revise predictions based on prior knowledge and evidence from the text. Select, from multiple choices, a prediction, inference or assumption that could be made from the text. Organize information to support a prediction or inference in a self-created graphic organizer.