Which of the following describes an inference?
a guess made about what a text is saying
information directly provided in a text
evidence from the text that supports a conclusion
a definition of an important term in a text
a guess made about what a text is saying
The correct answer is: evidence from the text that supports a conclusion.
An inference can be described as "evidence from the text that supports a conclusion." To understand why, let's break down the other options and compare them.
1. "A guess made about what a text is saying": This option refers to making an interpretation or assumption about the meaning of a text without any direct evidence. It is not a description of an inference because inferences are based on evidence found within the text.
2. "Information directly provided in a text": This option refers to information that is explicitly stated or clearly given in the text. While this information may be relevant for drawing inferences, it doesn't actually define what an inference is.
3. "Evidence from the text that supports a conclusion": This option accurately describes an inference. Inferences are conclusions or interpretations drawn based on evidence or clues found within the text but not explicitly stated. In other words, you use information provided in the text to make an educated guess or reach a logical conclusion.
4. "A definition of an important term in a text": This option refers to defining a key term or concept used in a text. While definitions are crucial for comprehension, they are not synonymous with inferences.
Therefore, the correct answer is "evidence from the text that supports a conclusion."