Sometimes the writer doesn’t give us the full picture. Sometimes they provide us with clues, but don’t write something explicitly. It’s crucial that we are teaching learners the comprehension skill of ‘Inferring meaning’, based on the evidence that is presented as well as their background knowledge.

In The CAFE Book, The Sisters suggest playing The Inferring Game. A simple game where the teacher provides learners with a statement:

e.g. “You are in school sitting at your table when all of a sudden you hear an ear-piercing noise and everyone walks out the classroom.”

Given a chance to work with a partner, learners would highlight all of the clues the writer has provided:
1) school
2) loud noise
3) leaving the room

Based on the clues given and their previous experience, of course . . . it was the fire alarm.

Click the links below to access some inference activities and games:

Inferences and Drawing Conclusions
What can you infer?
Inference Riddles
Detective Notebook
Inferring Activities

The clip below can be used to assist with the teaching of Making Inferences:

Let us know what resources you use to support the teaching of making inferences.