Spot the Assumption
Show a conclusion and ask what must be true for it to follow from the evidence.
Worked model: Spot the Assumption
- 1Show a conclusion and ask what must be true for it to follow from the evidence
- 2Ask what must also be true for the conclusion to follow
- 3Test that assumption against the information available
- 4State the condition or limit explicitly in the revised explanation
“More light caused more plant growth” assumes relevant conditions such as water supply were comparable. If water differed, the causal conclusion needs qualification.
Teach the move
Prepare · 5 minutes
Choose an explanation with an unstated condition that matters.
- 1
Show a conclusion and ask what must be true for it to follow from the evidence.
- 2
Ask what must also be true for the conclusion to follow.
- 3
Test that assumption against the information available.
- 4
State the condition or limit explicitly in the revised explanation.
EAL upgrade
Remove the assumption prompts and ask learners to identify an unstated condition themselves.
Keep the subject challenge. Offer one model, visual or language prompt where needed, then check a fresh independent response.
Try it tomorrow
Choose an explanation with an unstated condition that matters.
Show a conclusion and ask what must be true for it to follow from the evidence. Ask what must also be true for the conclusion to follow.
Alter the hidden condition and ask whether the original conclusion still follows.
Remove the assumption prompts and ask learners to identify an unstated condition themselves.
What to look for
Alter the hidden condition and ask whether the original conclusion still follows.
Teacher language
Adapt these prompts to the task and your learners.
Our purpose is: Show a conclusion and ask what must be true for it to follow from the evidence.
Show the relationship and explain the choice you made.
Try the new case on your own. Show the detail or reasoning that supports your answer.
Which support do you still need, and which part can you now do independently?
Across subjects
Maths: identify a condition under which a rule holds. Humanities: identify a source interpretation’s unsupported premise.
Adjust language support
Use a small word bank, visuals and partner rehearsal when needed. Extend with precise explanations and qualifications. Judge the support from the response to this task.