Define the term "drawn conclusion," as many children may not be familiar with the term, the concept or the process of drawing a conclusion. Specifically, explain that a conclusion is a final decision or outcome and that "to draw" is to rely upon or use. Therefore, a "drawn conclusion" is a decision that is reached when you use a certain set of facts. Avoid using words like "deduction" or "inference" as synonyms for "conclusion," as these terms may confuse children.
Teach children that conclusions are drawn from given facts, rather than speculations or imagined facts or scenarios. Encourage children to take a hard look at the facts presented in a problem or situation and to think critically about how and why these details are important. Caution children against guessing at conclusions, if there are not facts to support or substantiate a conclusion. Also emphasize that sometimes, there may not be enough facts to support a conclusion.
Provide examples of rationally and irrationally drawn conclusions to help children comprehend the process of drawing a conclusion. For instance, state the following: "I sneeze when cats are in the room. A cat is in the room. Therefore, I am sneezing." Then, alter the scenario to say: "I sneeze when cats are in the room. I am sneezing. Therefore, a cat is in the room." Explain the flawed logic in the second scenario.
Practice drawing conclusions using literature. For instance, read aloud book passages in which a character is described. Challenge the children to draw a conclusion about the character, such as whether the character is good or bad. Ask them to support their conclusion by citing facts or details presented in the passage.