Inference Through Song: Differentiated Guided Reading Using Adele’s “Easy On Me”

Help your students sharpen their inference skills using this engaging, differentiated comprehension activity based on Adele’s emotional ballad Easy On Me. Designed for upper Key Stage 2 and lower KS3, this lesson guides learners in exploring character thoughts, feelings, and motives through a familiar and relatable text — song lyrics.

What’s Included:

• Editable lesson flipchart (ActivInspire) and PDF.
• Links to websites required.
• Differentiated Question Sheets (Editable Word Documents):
• LA/Not Sure Questions – Simple retrieval and basic inference (e.g., word meaning, mood)
• MA/Confident Questions - Deeper exploration of metaphors, song meaning, and emotional tone
• HA/Very Confident Questions – High-level analysis, perspective writing, and thematic reflection
• Teacher Answer Guide: Example responses and discussion points provided for all levels
• Plenary Prompt: Discussion/reflection question on the theme/message of the song

Key Features:

• Differentiated by confidence level – Supports a wide range of learners
• Editable and flexible – All worksheets provided in Word format for easy adaptation
• Real-world engagement – Uses a globally known artist to capture attention and provoke thoughtful analysis
• Focus on inference – Targets key reading objective: deducing thoughts, feelings, and motives from a text
• Cross-curricular potential – Links literacy, music, and emotional literacy

Curriculum Links:
English Reading Comprehension (UK National Curriculum):

• Inference and interpretation skills
• Textual analysis and personal response

Perfect For:

• KS2 and KS3 (Years 5–8)
• Guided reading, whole-class lessons, or small group intervention
• Cover lessons or homework tasks
• Emotional literacy & PSHE tie-ins