English 9 / Unit 1: Reading Fiction: Plot, Setting and Conflict
1.6 Making Inferences and Citing Evidence
Notes
An inference is a logical conclusion based on text clues plus what you already know. Good readers support inferences with textual evidence.
- Clue + prior knowledge = inference.
- An inference is not stated directly; it must still be supported by the text.
- Strong evidence is specific and directly related to the claim.
- Example: "Jay slammed his locker and kicked his bag across the hall." Inference: Jay is angry.
Practice
"Priya checked her phone for the fifth time, tapped her foot and kept glancing at the door." What can you infer?
Repeated checking and glancing suggest nervous waiting.
"The fridge held a jar of mustard and half a lemon. Mom counted the coins on the counter twice." Which inference is best supported?
An empty fridge and counting coins suggest money is tight.
Which is the strongest evidence that a character is generous?
The action directly shows generosity.
Ready for more? Take the Unit 1 test.