To make inferences, readers use clues from the text along with their own background knowledge to figure out information not directly stated. Making inferences makes reading more engaging by allowing readers to connect the text to their own lives. Readers can infer by finding clues in the text, adding those clues to what they already know, and coming to a supported conclusion, though there may be multiple correct inferences. Previewing a passage helps with making inferences by prompting readers to consider what they already know and what experiences relate to the upcoming text.

1. Inferences &
Interpretations
Oklahoma 4th Grade Reading PASS Obj. 3:2

2. What is an Inference?
Something that we can figure out based
on our own past experiences.

3. When we can match stuff in a passage
that we’re reading, to something in our
own lives, it makes reading much more
fun!

4. To Infer
We need to find clues to get some answer.
We need to add those clues to what we
already know or have read.
There can be more than one correct
answer.
We need to be able to support inferences.

5. If you take the time to preview a passage
before you read it, you can ask yourself
the following questions...
What do I already know?
What experiences have I had that relate
to the passage?
What do I want to learn?

6. Use Clues
Writers don’t always come right out and
tell the reader everything. Sometimes it’s
your job as a reader to draw your own
conclusions. A conclusion is an opinion
based on reasoning.