Explicit and Implicit Inferencing

What does it mean when information is explicit in a text?

• The information is directly stated by the author

• The information is hidden and needs to be inferred

• The information is not present in the text

• The story is told from a third-person perspective

What does it mean when something is implicit in a text?

• The text is written in third person

• The meaning is not directly stated

• The meaning is clearly stated

• The text is written in past tense

Maggie was preparing to leave for school. She picked up her lunchbox and put on her shoes. Which of the following is explicitly stated in the paragraph?

• Maggie has a new lunchbox.

• Maggie picked up her lunchbox and put on her shoes.

• Maggie is excited about school.

• Maggie walks to school every day.

What can be inferred about Maggie's routine from the article below: Maggie was getting ready to walk to school. She put on her coat and grabbed her backpack.

• Maggie walks to school every day.

• Maggie dislikes going to school.

• Maggie has a long journey to school.

• Maggie forgot her lunch.

Read the passage below. Identify the explicit information. Omar grabbed his lunch and left the house quickly to avoid being late. He wore a uniform and carried a toolbox filled with various tools. He got into his van and drove away. The logo on his van read, “Fix-It Pros.”

• Omar grabbed his lunch and left the house quickly to avoid being late.

• Omar dislikes his job.

• Omar is an electrician.

• Omar has a blue van.

What can be inferred about Omar's profession from the paragraph? Omar rushed out of his house, wearing overalls and carrying a toolbox. He got into his truck, which had a sign that read 'Pipe Masters,' and drove away.

• Omar is a mechanic.

• Omar is a plumber.

• Omar is a carpenter.

• Omar is an electrician.

What can be inferred about Ryan's situation at Malik's house? Ryan was excited to spend the night at Malik's place. They had been classmates for a while but only recently became close friends. Ryan brought his sleeping bag, pillow, and some favorite toys and games. His mom dropped him off, and Malik greeted him with their secret handshake. They played pirates in the tree fort and ninjas in the driveway. As it got dark, they went inside. Ryan's eyes became red and itchy, and he started sneezing when he saw a big orange cat on the couch. "I'm sorry, Malik. I've had a great time, but I need to call my mom."

• Ryan is excited about the sleepover.

• Ryan brought his favorite toys and games.

• Ryan is allergic to cats.

• Ryan and Malik have a secret handshake.

What can be inferred from the story? Ryan was excited about spending the night at Malik's house. They had recently become good friends, and Ryan packed his sleeping bag, pillow, and favorite toys. His mam dropped him off, and Malik greeted him with their secret handshake. They played pirates and ninjas until it got dark. Inside Malik's house, Ryan's eyes became red and itchy, and he saw a big orange cat on the couch. He started sneezing and said, "I'm sorry, Malik. It's been fun, but I need to call my mam."

• Ryan is afraid of the dark.

• Ryan was excited to play with Malik.

• Ryan is allergic to cats.

• Ryan forgot his favorite toys.

When something is implicit then the reader can go back and find the information directly in the story.

• True
• False

Fahara wants to buy a new smart phone but she doesn't have the money. Which question from the list below would be considered explicit?

• Why does she need a new phone?
• How is Fahara going to raise the money?
• Why can't Fahara buy the smart phone?
• Where does she plan to buy the phone?