Inferring characters’ thoughts and motives
I can infer characters’ thoughts and motives based on their actions and the words they say.
Inferring characters’ thoughts and motives
I can infer characters’ thoughts and motives based on their actions and the words they say.
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Lesson details
Key learning points
- When we read, we make inferences based on evidence.
- We can infer what characters' thoughts might be based on their actions and stated words.
- We can also infer characters' motives - their reasons for acting - which might be different to their stated motives.
- Our inferences will also make use of empathy - and we should remember we can never empathise perfectly with others.
Keywords
Infer - use clues from within a text to draw conclusions
Empathise - get inside a character’s head to try and understand their feelings and points of view
Motive - a person's reason for doing something
Common misconception
Pupils may think an inference is just a guess.
Inferences are built on evidence, but they also make use of empathy.
To help you plan your year 6 english lesson on: Inferring characters’ thoughts and motives, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your year 6 english lesson on: Inferring characters’ thoughts and motives, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
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Explore more key stage 2 english lessons from the 'A Kind of Spark': reading unit, dive into the full secondary english curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.
Equipment
You need a copy of the 2020 Knights Of edition of ‘A Kind of Spark’ written by Elle McNicoll, illustrated by Kay Wilson, for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of discriminatory behaviour
- Depiction or discussion of peer pressure or bullying
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision recommended
Licence
Lesson video
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