Inference | Small Group
In this small-group Grade 2 writing lesson, students will learn to make simple inferences by using clues from pictures and short sentences. They will explain what they think is happening and write one or two sentences to support their thinking.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| inference | a smart guess you make using clues and what you already know |
| clue | a piece of information that helps you figure something out |
| evidence | the clue or details that support your idea |
| predict | to say what you think will happen next |
Show one picture with clear clues. Ask, 'What do you notice?' and 'What do you think is happening?' Model a simple inference using the picture clues.
Look closely at the picture, share observations, and make a simple guess about what is happening.
Explain that an inference is a smart guess made from clues. Write a simple example on the board: 'The child has an umbrella and wet shoes. I infer it is raining.' Point out the clue and the inference.
Listen, repeat the word inference, and help identify the clue and the smart guess.
Show 2 to 3 pictures one at a time. Guide students with questions: 'What clues do you see?' 'What do you think is happening?' 'What makes you think that?' Record student ideas using sentence stems.
Discuss each picture, name clues, and say their inference aloud using the sentence stems.
Give each student one picture or short text. Ask them to write one or two sentences: 'I infer...' and 'My clue is...' Circulate, support, and prompt students to use evidence.
Write one or two sentences explaining their inference and the clue that supports it.
Invite 1 or 2 students to read their writing. Reinforce that good inferences use clues from the text or picture.
Share writing and listen to classmates' ideas.
Review: 'An inference is a smart guess made from clues.' Ask students to turn and tell one clue they used today and one inference they made.
Collect student writing and check for a reasonable inference, a matching clue, and at least one complete sentence explaining the thinking.
At home, students look at a picture in a book, magazine, or family photo and write one sentence: 'I infer ___ because I see ___.’