W5D1 Reading
Introduction
Readers make inferences when reading. Inferences are NOT stated directly in the text. Inferences ARE conclusions based on evidence found in the text. It’s like solving a puzzle!
When readers infer, they use the clues like words and other details in the text ALONG
with their schema or knowledge about people, ideas, and the world.
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Inference Handout Download Inference Handout
Let's Learn About Inferences:
Let's Try Making Inferences
Read this passage again. Use the strategies above to make inferences while you read.
Jon’s Big Day
Jon woke up early with butterflies in his stomach. The smell of bacon coming from downstairs let him know that his mom was already making breakfast for his big day. On any other day, the smell would make him as hungry as a horse. But, not today. Going to a new school was no piece of cake. Just for a moment, he pulled his favorite blue, fuzzy blanket under his chin. Beep! Beep! Beep! The alarm clock was like a gong in his quiet room. He pushed the button, took a deep breath, and willed himself to get up. Today isn’t going to be easy Jon thought. Even though his heartbeat was a drum in his ears, he put both feet on the bedroom floor. Time to seize the day!
After getting ready for school, Jon headed downstairs where his mom had breakfast waiting. Walking into the comforting aromas filling the kitchen, Jon felt his fears about a new school relax a little. Mom and Jon sat together for breakfast. Jon knew his mom was trying to make beginning a new school a little easier.
“Ready for your big day?” Mom asked.
“I’m a little nervous,” murmured Jon. “Making new friends isn’t easy.”
Jon wondered what all of his old friends were doing today. Were they planning on meeting at the corner to catch the bus together? They were probably making plans to meet up at lunch. The thought weighed his mind down like a wet blanket.
“You’ll be fine,” encouraged Mom. “And, you met Chet from next door. You two seemed to hit it off. He’s in your grade, you know.”
Jon remembered that he liked Chet but worried that Chet had his own friends. After thanking his mom for breakfast, Jon grabbed his backpack and headed out the door. The snap of the closing door felt like he was stepping out into a deep abyss. He felt like an astronaut headed to deep space or a diver headed into uncharted depths of the ocean. One who felt uncertain of where he was going and unsure if there was any way to return. No turning back now. Looking down the sidewalk, Jon saw Chet standing with another kid Jon had seen in the neighborhood. Chet began to motion for Jon to come over. Nervously, Jon headed toward the pair.
“This is Jami,” Chet said with a smile as wide as his face. “We always walk to the bus together…and help each other get through the first day of school.” He elbowed Jami playfully and said to Jon, “Do you want to walk with us? After all, everyone's a little nervous on the first day of school.” Jami grinned and shook her head in agreement. Jon felt a wave of relief wash over him.
“Sure!” Jon replied. Today wasn’t going to be such a bad day after all with new friends.
Quick Check:
Using the passage above, answer these questions. Remember, you must support your inference with text evidence!
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