Share Higher-level Inferencing Passages
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You left your hot dog on the picnic table while you went to play basketball. When you returned, the plate was empty. A dog was licking its lips nearby, and your family hadn’t eaten yet. What most likely happened to your hot dog?
The dog probably ate it.
You walked into the kitchen and noticed your little brother standing very still. Cookie crumbs covered his shirt, and the cookie jar was open. He quickly said, “I didn’t eat any.” What can you infer?
He probably ate the cookies.
Your teacher walks into class carrying a large stack of papers. Everyone suddenly becomes very quiet, and several students sigh. What are the papers most likely?
Graded tests or assignments.
After soccer practice, Mia slowly climbed into the car. She didn’t talk much, took off her cleats, and rubbed her legs the whole ride home.
She’s tired and sore.
You hear your parents whispering in the living room. When you walk in, they suddenly stop talking and smile at you. What can you infer?
They may be planning a surprise or discussing something they don’t want you to hear yet.
The lights flickered twice before everything went dark. A few seconds later, the air conditioner stopped, and your Wi-Fi disconnected. What most likely happened?
The power went out.
When Noah got home, his backpack was much lighter than usual. His science book and notebook were still sitting on his classroom desk. What can you infer?
He forgot his school materials at school.
Emma kept checking her phone every few minutes. She smiled every time it buzzed and finally grabbed her jacket as soon as she got one last message. What can you infer?
She was waiting for someone to text her so they could meet.
Your friend keeps looking at the clock instead of paying attention during class. As soon as the bell rings, he grabs his backpack before anyone else. What can you infer?
He’s excited to leave or has somewhere to be.
A car is parked in the driveway with its headlights on, but no one is inside. The front door is open, and everyone is searching around the garage. What are they most likely looking for?
The car keys.
You hear loud cheering from your neighbor’s house. A few seconds later, fireworks appear on the TV screen through the window. What probably happened?
Their favorite team won a championship or an important game.
The cafeteria is unusually quiet today. Several students are reading instead of talking, and many teachers are walking around reminding students to stay focused. What can you infer is happening later today?
Students probably have a big test or exams.
A student walks into school carrying flowers and wearing nicer clothes than usual. Several classmates congratulate her. What can you infer?
She probably has a special event, performance, graduation, or celebration.
You notice muddy footprints leading from the back door through the kitchen. Your dog is hiding under the table with dirty paws. What most likely happened?
The dog came inside with muddy paws.
During science class, everyone puts on safety goggles before beginning the activity. What can you infer about today’s lesson?
They are doing a science experiment.
The movie theater parking lot is completely full. People are standing in a long line holding popcorn and drinks. What can you infer?
A popular movie is showing.
