The strange, funny, and totally true stories of how your favorite brands got their names
Learning Objective: to identify when to use imply and infer
Directions:
Read the hint below. Then read the blurbs that follow. Pick the correct word in each bolded pair.
Imply or Infer?
To imply is to hint at something without saying it directly.
To infer is to figure something out that has not been directly said.
Example:
If Clara says to Rob, “How can you listen to that music?,” she is implying that the music is bad. Rob can then infer that Clara doesn’t like his music.
This article was originally published in the November 2024 issue.
1. Prepare to Read
(5 minutes)
Watch the Video
Show students the Grammar Hack: Imply or Infer? video, a short animated video with tips for how to keep these words straight.
Set a Purpose for Reading
Direct students’ attention to the hint box and directions on page 2 or at the top of the digital story page. Read each aloud.
2. Read and Discuss
(5 minutes)
Have students read the three boxes of text independently or with a partner, circling the correct word in each bolded word pair. Optionally, share the interactive version of this article, which has dropdown menus. Then discuss the answers.
In your Resources tab, find an anchor chart and a skill-reinforcement activity called Imply or Infer? This activity is also available as a Google Slideshow for projecting.
3. Write
(1 minute)
Have students practice using this grammar skill in context. Project this Exit Ticket prompt on your board for students to respond to on a sticky note before they leave class:
Fill in a form of either imply or infer in the sentences below:
1. The teacher _______ there would be a pop quiz tomorrow by telling the students to spend extra time studying their notes that evening.
2. I can _______ the meaning of this story based on the evidence in the text.
3. Jimmy’s poem meant to _______ that he had a crush on someone in his class.
4. Karina _______ that her friend Monica was upset from Monica’s frown.
