lesson
Separate what happens from what you infer
1 · Learn
Read this original opening: 'The station clock had stopped at six. Mara checked her own watch, then tucked the unopened letter deeper into her coat. When the platform gate rattled, she stepped behind a pillar.' The clock's stopped hands are stated; the actual time is not.
An inference joins clues to a plausible explanation. Mara may be avoiding someone, but the passage does not identify that person. Keep the distinction between an evidenced possibility and an invented fact.
2 · Worked example
I infer caution from Mara hiding the letter and stepping behind the pillar. I cannot conclude the train is late, because no timetable or current time is supplied.
3 · Your turn
Which action best supports the idea that Mara wants to remain unseen?
Check your answer
She steps behind a pillar when the gate rattles. Other interpretations need evidence from the same passage.
4 · Apply your learning
Write one retrieval question and one inference question about the opening, with a justified answer to each.
Adult guidance and safety
Discuss interpretations using the words actually supplied. Give feedback on complete drafts and spoken contributions. These original short models must be accompanied by sustained whole-text study and a diverse reading programme; they do not fulfil author-in-depth or Shakespeare requirements by themselves.
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