Correct Response: D. Readers make text-based inferences by combining evidence from the text with relevant background knowledge. Sentence frames like the ones described provide English learners with a language scaffold that supports making inferences based on evidence and background knowledge. Not only does the sentence frame divide the skill into a series of simple steps, but it also makes the linguistic task more accessible for the students as they discuss or write about the content in the passages. According to evidence, English learners benefit from literacy instruction that incorporates explicit language support to complete academic language tasks. Options A and C are incorrect because, while prereading the passages (A) or being able to use reference materials (C) may be useful if the students need support in understanding some words in the passage, these strategies do not support language development related to the target skill, making inferences during reading. Option B is incorrect because this strategy does not provide the English learners with support in inferential comprehension. All students should receive differentiated instruction that makes grade-level instruction accessible.
