ELT365 · Day 161 — Inference in Listening

Idea — Inferring means using what is said plus what is implied to reach a conclusion the speaker never stated. It is higher-order listening.

Example — ‘She’s been here since seven.’ Nobody said she is tired — but the inference is available and likely intended.

Try — Write three statements that imply something without stating it. Ask learners what can be inferred. Discuss where each inference comes from.

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