How might the reading comprehension section include questions that test inference skills?

The reading comprehension section can effectively test inference skills by asking for conclusions that can be drawn from the text. This approach goes beyond mere recall of factual information to require readers to synthesize details and read between the lines. For instance, a question may present a scenario or detail that is implied rather than explicitly stated, prompting the reader to make logical connections and derive a conclusion based on the context.

This skill is crucial in reading comprehension because it reflects a deeper understanding of the material. Inference requires the reader to engage with the text actively, considering the author’s tone, context, and implied meanings to arrive at insights that are not directly mentioned. The ability to make such inferences is what often distinguishes a proficient reader from one who only understands surface-level information.

In contrast, options that provide direct quotes, focus solely on the main idea, or test vocabulary recognition do not assess inference skills since they do not require the reader to engage with underlying messages or implicit content beyond what is plainly stated in the text.