Backing Up an Inference With Evidence

Support an inference by citing the specific words from the text that led to it.

An inference is only as strong as the evidence behind it. When you share an inference, you should be able to say exactly which words led you there. A useful sentence frame is: 'I think ___ because the text says ___. ' Read: 'Grandpa squinted at the newspaper, held it at arm's length, and then searched the table. "Has anyone seen my glasses?" he asked.

' Inference: Grandpa has trouble reading without his glasses. Evidence: he squinted, he held the paper far away, and he asked for his glasses. Notice that the evidence is specific words, not just 'the story said so'. Strong evidence can be pointed to, quoted, or underlined.

• 1Strong inferences are backed by specific words.
• 2Frame: I think ___ because the text says ___.
• 3Point to, quote, or underline your evidence.