Predicting what happens next
Predict what might happen next in a story based on what has been read so far; discuss the significance of titles and events
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Teaching Table · Reviewed guide
Set out your lesson
“A prediction is a thoughtful idea about what may happen next. We use clues from the story and what we already know.”
Bring to the table
- A familiar storybook or short story
- Two sticky notes or scraps of paper
Full guide and materials
- A familiar storybook or short story
- Two sticky notes or scraps of paper
- Step 1. Look at the title and cover and make one prediction before reading.
- Step 2. Read until a character faces a choice or problem, then pause.
- Step 3. Ask “What do you think happens next, and which story clue makes you think that?”
- Step 4. Read on, compare the prediction with the story, and revise the second prediction if new clues appear.
- Quick check. Pause at a new point. Success means your child states a possible next event and identifies at least one relevant clue from the text or picture.
Worked example. If a character packs boots and the sky turns dark, predict that they may walk in rain. “Dark sky” and “boots” are the clues.
Optional challenge. Ask your child to make two plausible predictions from the same clue and explain which is more likely.
What to notice. Save a photo of the book page with a written prediction, or a short parent note quoting the prediction and supporting clue.
Compare teaching approaches
Teaching approaches
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2 approaches
A prediction is a thoughtful idea about what may happen next. We use clues from the story and what we already know.
Read a short story for 10 minutes. Pause twice before an important event, ask for a prediction, and have your child name the clue that supports it.
Predict from clues, explain the title, and revise after a new event.
Predict from clues, explain the title, and revise after a new event.
Family records and proof options
Keep a record of your learning
Save photos, notes, and attendance. Export a proof packet for compliance or portfolio reviews.
Learning resources
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Check understanding
- Make a prediction before turning the page and explain reasoning
- Discuss why a title fits or hints at the story content
- Revise predictions as new information is encountered in the text
“When you stop midway through a story, can your child make a reasonable guess about what might happen next — and explain why they think so based on what's happened so far?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Meta
- Subject
- English
- Domain
- Reading Comprehension
- Age range
- Ages 4–10
Standards