Reading: Reading for Inference & Implied Meaning: B2 Lesson 2: Inferring Characters' Feelings, Motives, and Relationships

Reading for Inference

B2 Lesson 2: Feelings & Motives

Goal: Read "between the lines" to understand how characters truly feel, even when they don't say it directly.

1. Key Concepts

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Inference Using clues to find the hidden meaning.

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Motive The reason why a character does something.

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Imply To suggest something without saying it directly.

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Tone The mood or attitude of the speaker (e.g., sarcastic, angry).

2. The Iceberg Theory

In stories (and real life), people only say 10% of what they mean. 90% is hidden "under water."

What is SAID (Words)

What is MEANT (Feelings, Motives)

[Image of Iceberg]

3. Decoding Actions

Writers use actions to show feelings. Can you translate them?

"Sarah slammed the door and crossed her arms."

➔ She is angry / defensive.

"David kept checking his watch and tapping his foot."

➔ He is impatient / nervous.

"She looked down and her cheeks turned red."

➔ She is embarrassed / shy.

4. Inference Quiz

Scenario: Tom asks Lisa if she wants to go to the cinema.

Lisa: "Oh... well, I actually have a lot of work to do tonight. Maybe another time?"

1. How does Lisa feel about going to the cinema? She really wants to go. She doesn't want to go (polite refusal).

2. What word signals her hesitation? "Tonight" "Oh... well..."

3. What is the relationship between Tom and Lisa? Strangers Friends / Acquaintances