Inference is the ability to read between the lines and extract deeper meaning beyond what is stated in a text. It is common for KS2 pupils to struggle with inference. This challenge often continues as they move up through the year groups. In their final year of primary school, many students routinely complete practice assessments using past SATs reading papers. Analysis of these often shows that year 6 inference skills still require significant attention.
SATs reading tests are intended to assess how well students understand what they read, including deeper levels of comprehension. The English National Curriculum states:
It is essential that, by the end of their primary education, all pupils are able to read fluently,
and with confidence, in any subject in their forthcoming secondary education.
Rightly or wrongly, their ability to do this is measured through end-of primary tests. The year 6 SATs reading assessment paper places considerable emphasis on checking a pupil's ability to answer inferential questions. In fact, around half of the questions on the 2025 year 6 SATs reading test were related to inference. If students haven’t developed the habit of thoughtfully engaging with texts, they’ll find it difficult to infer meaning. Given that so many test questions involve inference, those who lack these skills are unlikely to perform well.
So, how can year 6 inference skills be improved? Where should teachers begin? Here are some ideas.