“Jess slammed the door and threw her bag onto the floor.” How is Jess most likely feeling?
Inference versus retrieval
Year 6 · Upper Key Stage 2 · 2d — Make inferences from the text; 2b — Retrieve key details
Draft — awaiting teacher review
Builds on: Modal verbs and degrees of possibility (Year 5)
I
Concept Anchor
Retrieval: the answer is stated in the text. Inference: you combine clues in the text with what you know to reach a conclusion the writer did not state directly.
Worked example
“Maya’s hands trembled as she reached for the envelope.” How does Maya feel?
- 1.Find the clue: ‘hands trembled’.
- 2.Ask what usually causes this: nerves, fear, excitement.
- 3.Use the context (an envelope — perhaps results).
- 4.Inference: Maya is nervous, supported by ‘trembled’.
II
Guided Check
“Tom glanced at the clock for the fifth time and drummed his fingers on the desk.” What can you infer about Tom? Give one piece of evidence.
III
Independent Diagnostic Practice
“The lighthouse, built in 1874, stood on the northern cliff.” Which question is answered by retrieval?
“Grandpa’s smile didn’t quite reach his eyes as he waved us off.” What does this suggest?