What might an inference in reading comprehension require?

An inference in reading comprehension requires a combination of text evidence and background knowledge because it involves interpreting and understanding ideas that are not explicitly stated in the text. When readers make inferences, they analyze the clues provided by the author, such as characters' actions, dialogue, and contextual details, while also drawing on their own experiences, knowledge, and understanding of the world.

This process allows readers to fill in gaps left by the text, leading to deeper insights and connections. For example, if a character is shown acting nervously, readers might infer that the character is anxious about an upcoming event, using textual hints and their understanding of human emotions to make that conclusion. This multifaceted approach enables readers to engage more critically with the material, resulting in a richer comprehension of the narrative or argument presented.

In contrast, relying solely on personal opinions or guessing based on a title without the support of text evidence or knowledge would likely lead to misunderstandings or superficial interpretations.