1. Inference
EOG Reading Skill 1

2. What is an inference?
An inference is a logical assumption about information not directly stated. It is based on information the text gives and your own thoughts. 2

3. How do you make an inference?
To make an inference, combine clues from the text with your prior knowledge, or what you already know.
To help make inferences as you read, use a chart like this:
Details Prior Knowledge Inference 3

4. An example of inference
Tina woke up one Monday morning in late December and looked out her window. She saw the streets covered with snow. It looked like it had been snowing all night. Tina smiled when she saw the snow. What can we infer about how Tina feels when she sees the snow? 4

5. Details Prior Knowledge Inference
Tina smiled when she saw the snow.
People smile when they are happy.
Tina is happy when she sees the snow. 5

6. Now It’s your turn…
Mr. Jefferson parked his car in front of his house. That night there was a terrible storm. Lightning struck a tree in the front yard, and the tree fell on top of his car. The next morning, when Mr. Jefferson saw his car, he said, “I’m glad I wasn’t in my car when the tree fell on it.” What inference can be made about what Mr. Jefferson’s car looks like? 6