1. Chapter 9: Reading Critically: Inferences and Author’s Purpose
Active Reading Skills, 1/e Kathleen McWhorter
PowerPoints by Gretchen Starks-Martin
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Inference
An inference is an educated guess or prediction about something unknown based on available facts and information.
It is the logical connection that you draw between what you observe or know and what you do not know.
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Inference Example
A well-dressed man walks toward the front of your lecture hall on the first day of class.
What can you infer?
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How to Make Inferences
Understand the literal meaning.
Notice details.
Add up the facts.
Look at the writer’s choice of words.
Understand the writer’s purpose. “Why did the author write this”?
Be sure your inference is supportable with facts.
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5. Understanding a Writer’s Purpose
Inform
Persuade
Amuse
Give Instructions
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Example of “to inform”
Maria Montessori founded her first school for young children in Italy in Today there are thousands of Montessori schools throughout the world.
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7. Example of “to persuade”
New Baked Fat-Free Spicy Chips: Finally a tasty snack without the fat. We bake them instead of frying and add your favorite spices. Try a bag today!
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Example of “to amuse”
Children tell it like it is…sometimes to the embarrassment of their parents.
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9. Example of “to give instructions”
In case of an emergency, remain calm and proceed in an orderly manner to the nearest exit.
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10. Style & Intended Audience
The characteristics that make a piece of writing unique is known as style.
Some Characteristics:
uses many examples
uses long, complicated sentences
uses informal word choice
uses technical language
Intended Audiences:
news magazines
professional journals
newspapers
children’s books
retirement news letters
textbooks
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Denotation
Denotation: The meaning stated in the dictionary; its literal meaning
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Connotation
Connotation: The additional implied meanings that a word may take on. It can carry either a positive or negative, favorable or unfavorable, impression.
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Connotative Meanings
Old or mature?
Self-centered or self-absorbed?
Fun or amusing?
Persistent or stubborn?
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14. Visit the Companion Website
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