- Definition
When your child makes an inference, they are figuring out something that isn't directly said in a story by using clues from the text and what they already know.
If a character in a story slams the door, you can infer they are angry, even if the words don't say it.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Making an inference is like seeing muddy footprints on the floor and guessing someone just came in from the rain.
Ask your child: The character is yawning. What time of day might it be?
Common mix-up: Kids may think an inference is just a wild guess. It's actually a smart guess you make using clues from the story and what you already know about the world.
Examples
- When a book describes characters putting on pajamas, you can infer it is bedtime.
- If a character shares their last cookie with a friend, you can infer they are kind.
inference is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
