Inferential understanding means that the reader must “read between the lines” which can lead them to think beyond the text and reflect on their thinking.
Inferring has proven to be difficult for many students. When readers begin to understand the process of inferring the process of inferential thinking becomes more natural.
INFERENTIAL THINKING REQUIRES MANY PROCESSES ALL AT ONCE
Readers are expected to use many different reading processes and strategies in order to make one inference.
No wonder it is so difficult for many readers--especially young readers--to master the process of inferring.
Readers can MAKE INFERENCES from pictures and illustrations without text.
Readers can INFER meaning based on pictures and illustrations.
Readers must pay close attention to DETAILS.
Readers must CONNECT what they already know (SCHEMA) with the TEXT DETAILS to INFER.
HOW TO MAKE INFERENTIAL THINKING MORE VISIBLE FOR READERS
Readers need to see how inferential thinking works. A few simple strategies can make inferring more VISIBLE for students.