Stage 3 reading - Inference
Learning intention
Students will learn to use background information and clues in the text to make inferences.
Syllabus outcome
- EN3-3A: uses an integrated range of skills, strategies and knowledge to read, view and comprehend a wide range of texts in different media and technologies
- EN3-5B: discusses how language is used to achieve a widening range of purposes for a widening range of audiences and contexts.
National Literacy Learning Progression
Understanding texts
UnT8: reads and views some moderately complex texts (see Text complexity) (comprehension); draws inferences and verifies using text evidence (comprehension)
UnT9: draws inferences, synthesising clues and evidence across a text (comprehension); identifies different interpretations of the text citing evidence from a text (comprehension); uses processes such as predicting, confirming prediction, monitoring and connecting relevant elements of the text to build or repair meaning (process); selects reading/viewing strategies appropriate to reading purpose (e.g. scans text for evidence) (process); identifies language used to create tone or atmosphere (vocabulary); interprets complex figurative language (e.g. euphemisms, hyperbole) (vocabulary)
UnT10: interprets abstract concepts integrating complex ideas (comprehension); draws inferences using evidence from the text and discounts possible inferences that are not supported by the text (comprehension); demonstrates an understanding of nuances and subtleties in words of similar meaning (e.g. frustrated, discouraged, baffled) (vocabulary)
NAPLAN item descriptors
The relevant NAPLAN item descriptors are included in the resource, available for download on this page.
Task outline
Full task descriptions are included in the resource, available for download on this page.
What is inference?
Students use clues and background knowledge to learn about inference .
Using pictures to infer
Students make predictions and connections using a range of images.
Inferring from text
Students connect evidence, background knowledge and text clues with an inference.
Show don’t tell
Students use evidence, background knowledge and text clues to infer character traits and key ideas in texts.
Actions and motivations
Students examine character actions and use text clues to infer motivations.
Inference in poetry
Students use various strategies to determine the overall message in poems.