Guessing what comes next — Literature, 4–6 years
Use clues from a story to make a careful guess about what may happen next. Literature, 4–6 years.
Readers can make guesses
While reading, you can pause and ask, “What might happen next?” A good prediction is not a random guess. It uses clues from the words, pictures and what has already happened in the story.
Why readers predict
Stories hide some of what is coming, so readers have a reason to pay close attention. Making a prediction helps you connect clues and notice whether the story confirms or changes your idea. Being wrong is useful: it shows which clue you missed.
Making a prediction
The story says: “Leo packs a towel, sun cream and a red ball. He hears waves.” First, collect the clues: he has beach things and can hear the sea. Next, make a prediction: Leo will probably go to the beach to play. Then read on to check it.
A prediction is not a promise
You may feel that a guess must be right, especially when you have spotted one strong clue. But stories can surprise us, and several answers may fit at first. Say “I think” or “perhaps”, explain your clue, and change your idea when new words appear.
Predicting in daily life
We use the same habit outside books. Dark clouds and a wet path may make you predict rain, so you take a coat; a nearly empty cup may make you predict that someone needs more water. You use clues, then check what happens.
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