Inferring STAAR Practice

Many breeds of dogs are used for work. In many cultures dogs are used to herd sheep. The dogs keep the flock from being attacked by animals such as wolves. They also keep sheep from wandering off. Sheepdogs are known for their loyalty and gentleness. Based on your reading of the text, you can INFER that:

• Sheepdogs are not very smart dogs.

• Sheepdogs are gentle and loyal.

• There are many breeds of dogs.

• Wolves are afraid of sheepdogs.

When you see "the reader can conclude" or "the most likely reason", what are you suppose to do?

• guess

• use a dictionary

• infer

• ask your neighbor

Which idea about the main character is emphasized in paragraph 7? How will the reader find the answer?

• Consider the main character's actions

• Consider the main character's words

• Consider a description of the main character

• All of the above

When I see "the reader can conclude" or "the character most likely", I am

• guessing

• inferring

• memorizing

• I don't know.

After reading a story about a community garden, what evidence suggests the garden helped bring the community together?

• The garden had many different types of plants.

• People from the community worked together to plant and maintain the garden.

• The garden was located in the center of the community.

• The story mentioned that the garden won an award.

Answer explanation

The correct choice is that people from the community worked together to plant and maintain the garden, which suggests the garden helped bring the community together.

Read the following passage: The sun was setting, and the sky turned a brilliant shade of orange and pink. Maria stood on her balcony, watching the day turn into night. She felt a sense of peace as she observed the beauty of nature. Based on the passage, what can you infer about Maria's feelings towards nature?

• She is indifferent to it.

• She finds it unsettling.

• She appreciates its beauty.

• She is afraid of the dark.

What can be inferred about a character who apologizes after making a mistake and tries to make amends?

• They do not care about the feelings of others.

• They are irresponsible and careless.

• They value honesty and responsibility.

• They are trying to avoid consequences for their actions.

What is an inference?

• A fact stated directly in the text

• A personal opinion about the text

• A logical guess or conclusion based on evidence in the text

• A detailed description provided by the author

Which of the following sentences is an example of inferencing?

• The sky is blue.

• The grass is wet; it must have rained last night.

• There are 24 hours in a day.

• Water boils at 100 degrees Celsius.

What can you infer about a character who always wears bright colors and smiles often?

• They work in a colorful environment.

• They are generally a happy and positive person.

• They are trying to stand out.

• They dislike dark colors.

Answer explanation

The character's choice of bright colors and frequent smiling suggests they are generally a happy and positive person, rather than any of the other options provided.