Holy Trinity Catholic High School Literacy Test Survival Guide

OSSLT ENG2D and ENG2P

Student Name: ______________________________________

Teacher Name: ______________________________________

Date: ________________________

Holy Trinity Catholic High SchoolGrade 10 Literacy Test (OSSLT)

Student Survival Guide

Name: ______________________________________

Keep this guide to use with all preperation for the Literacy Test.

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Table of Contents: 1. Terms To Know

2. OSSLT Information3. Reading Strategies4. Mulitple Choice Strategies5. PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS7. Strategies for Writing Short Answer/Opinion Paragraphs8. PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS

11. Strategies for Writing Summary Paragraphs 13. PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS 17. Grammar Review 18. PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS

20. Strategies for Reading Graphic Texts 21. PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS

25. Strategies for Writing News Articles. 27. PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS

29. Strategies for Writing a Series of Paragraphs to Express an Opinion 31. PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS

TERMS TO KNOWBiased: Holding a personal opinion and favouring a particular side of an argument or idea.Brainstorm: Think of ideas (as many as possible) and write them down. Connect: Linking ideas, examples, and points together to explain your thoughts. Text to self/text to world connections apply here as well.Context: The information and ideas surrounding a word or phrase.Effective: Something that works well.Explain: To offer reasons for the cause, beliefs or actions of something.Inference: A conclusion that is made based on limited information – reading between the lines.Key words: Important words that are needed to understand the purpose of the text.Main idea: The central idea or message presented in a text.Objective: Without bias. Not expressing a personal opinion (just the facts).Persuade: Attempt to convince someone to agree with you or your opinion.Scan: Look through a text to find something specific.Skim: Look over a whole text quickly to get a general understanding.Support (supporting detail): Evidence or examples used to back up an idea or opinion.Text/Selection: A piece of writing or graphical information.Thesis: The main idea or opinion presented in a text.Unbiased: Not showing favour to a particular side of an argument or idea.

OSSLT (Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test)Information

When is the test? The actual test is on ____________________________in the morning.

What time is the test? The test will be written in the morning during periods 1 and 2. Arrive at school early on the test day; it will start at _________________ AM sharp!

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How long is the test? The test is in two parts. You have 75 minutes to complete each part. If you pace yourself properly, you should be able to finish in that time. Make sure that you know the writing strategies so well that you don’t have to overthink the questions.

What happens if I don't finish a book within the time? Books will be collected after 75 minutes whether you finish or not. You will not be able to go back after the time is up.

What happens if I am sick? You will have to write the test next year. There is only one day to write the test each year. Do not miss the test unless you are severely ill.

What if I am late? You will lose valuable test time and you may not be allowed to write. No extra time can be awarded.

When do I find out my results? You should find out whether you passed or failed by the time you receive your final report card in the summer. You will not receive a mark if you pass. If you fail, you will receive a number between 200-300 (over 300 is a pass).

What happens if I fail? You will have a chance to write the test again next year. If you fail twice, you will have to complete the Literacy course in grade 12.

Why is the test so important? You need to pass the test or the Literacy course in order to graduate. Every grade 10 student in Ontario has to write the test on the same day. A lot of time, money, and effort is put into the test to make sure students in Ontario are graduating with adequate literacy skills.

What is on the test? The test is a combination of reading sections, writing sections (long and short), and multiple choice questions. Examples of everything you will see on the test are in this survival guide.

How can I get extra help in preparing for the test? You will have in class preperation in your English class. You will also be exposed to literacy preparation in other courses. There are after school literacy boot camp classes and there is online support at http://www.eqao.com/en/assessments/OSSLT/parents/Pages/Parents.aspx

Can I pass the test? Yes, if you listen to your teachers, take the practice seriously, and seek extra help if you need it. Please talk to your teachers if you have any other questions or worries about the test.

Reading, Multiple Choice, and Writing Fundamentals

READING

There are several short reading sections on the Literacy Test. You will have to read the passages and answer multiple choice and short answer questions based on what you read.

Strategies to help understand a text:

➔ Read the questions first and highlight key words

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➔ Read the whole text thoroughly, underlining key words that connect to the questions: Do not skim the text for key words as a method of answering questions because there are a number of answers that are tricky, and you must know the context of the whole selection in order to answer properly.

➔ Make a movie in your mind (visualization) to help you comprehend what you are reading.

➔ Highlighting: As you read, use a highlighter or pen to mark key points of information. As you read, ask yourself what the main ideas are and highlight them.

➔ Making connections: As you read, connect what you are reading to what you already know or what you have experienced that relates to the text.

➔ Conextual clues: Use the ideas around a word (context) to figure out what an unknown word could mean.

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MULTIPLE CHOICE

On the Literacy Test, you will have to answer mulitple choice questions for reading sections and for grammar. Use these strategies to increase your chances of success after applying the reading strategies above:

1. Read question carefully and think of answers before looking at the choices.

2. Read the entire question, including all answer choices, before choosing an answer. Sometimes there are two anwers that appear correct, so you have to read and analyze all answers to choose the best one. There are often key words that will direct you to the correct one.

3. If you are asked to give the "best meaning" of a word "as used in" the selection, refer to the context in which the word appears to find the answer.

4. Process of elimination: You should be able to narrow it down to two choices by eliminating answers that are absolutely wrong.

5. Watch out for trick answers/questions: a) All of the above (each answer must be obviously correct for this to be right) b) None of the above (each answer must be obviously incorrect - this is not always the right

choice) c) Watch for questions with “not”, “all”, “sometimes”, or other distractors that are

designed to lead you away from the correct answer.

6.. For the grammar questions, look for a pattern. All of the answers have one thing in common: punctuation, subject agreements, capitalization, etc. Find the pattern in order to determine the correct answer.

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that the noodles were buried during a flood that wiped out the Qijia culture in the late neolithic era.

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SHORT WRITING TASK (SHORT ANSWER/OPINION)

You will have to write a paragraph response to questions asking your opinion about real world topics or reading selections. BEFORE WRITING: Brainstorm possible answers to the question.

WHEN WRITING: Use the RACES approach to make sure you include all of the necessary information:

R restate the main topic in the question

A answer with a because statement

C cite a specific example orquote to prove your opinion/answer

E explain how this proof supports your opinion/answer

S state a concluding sentence that summarizes your answer

SAMPLE QUESTION:If you could visit anywhere in the world, which place would you visit? Explain why.

Brainstorming: New York City – lots to see and do – Yankees, Empire States Buidling, Ground Zero, shopping. It is also close to Ottawa. It is a huge city with a lot of history.

SAMPLE SHORT ANSWER: A

If I could visit anywhere in the world, I would visit New York City because it has so many things to see and so much to do. For example, in New York, people can shop at famous stores, go to the Empire States Building, visit Ground Zero, or take in a baseball game. Not only does New York have so much to offer, but it is within driving distance from Ottawa. The many attractions and the limited travel expenses make New York City my number one travel destination. A ADDITIONAL THINGS TO REMEMBER

● Fill the whole space provided. Stick to the question that is asked.● Write as clearly as possible and proofread your writing when you finish.

TIME TO PRACTICE YOUR SKLLS

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TIME TO PRACTICE YOUR SKLLS

READING RESPONSE PRACTICE (READING NEWS ARTICLES)

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SUMMARY WRITING

You will have to write one or two summaries based on a given text. Your summary must be less than 100 words and fit in the space provided. BEFORE WRITING: Look at the title of the text, the first sentence, and the last sentence for clues to determine the main idea of the text. Then highlight a key sentence in the beginning of the text, the middle, and near the end that is connected to this main idea. Determining the who, what, why and how of the text can help you to better understand the main idea as well.

SAMPLE QUESTION:Summarize this selection. Include a main idea and one relevant point that supports it. (Although it asks for one relevant point, you should provide more than one to get a Code 30).

SAMPLE READING: Smog warnings and stifling heat sum up summer in a city. And no wonder. Compared tothe countryside, a city becomes hot and smoggy because pavement and cement buildingsabsorb and release solar heat. Air conditioning is a costly solution that is harmful to theenvironment. That’s why some innovative people have turned instead to Mother Nature’ssolution by planting prairie grass on their rooftops to cool down their buildings.

The grass takes care of itself — it is watered by rain and seeds itself year after year. The benefits of a grass roof outweigh the start-up costs. If six per cent of the roofs in Toronto were “green,” the city’s temperature would be a degree or two cooler and there would be a five to10 percent reduction in smog. Because green roofs trap rain water, the water runoffcarrying pollutants into streams is reduced. At the same time, the grass releases clean

oxygen into the air. Not only that, green roofs are also a haven for birds and provide apleasant view for neighbouring buildings.

We don’t have to look too far to find a solution to the heavy demand for electrical power for summertime air conditioning. The answer is over our heads.

WHEN WRITING THE SUMMARY:

1. The first sentence should state the main idea of the text: What is the text about as a whole? What is the text trying to teach you?

2. The body should identify three key points of information from the text that are used to support or explain the main point. Remember to use transitional words or phrases to help each point flow into the next.

3. Connection/Conclusion: The conclusion should demonstrate how the support connects to the main idea.

SAMPLE SUMMARY:

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Since summer in the city brings heat and smog, which adds to an increase in temperature, planting prairie grass on building rooftops in the city is an environmentally friendly way to cool buildings. First, these “green” roofs remove the need for “costly” air conditioning. Additionally, they reduce pollutants, release oxygen into the air, and provide a home for birds. Consequently, the benefits and beauty they provide make the start up costs worthwhile. As a result, instead of turning up the air conditioning in the city, offices should consider a grass rooftop to combat the heat and smog in the summer.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO REMEMBER:

● Fill the whole space provided, but do not exceed the space.● Make sure you include the main idea from the article and one example of support. ● Do not just copy sentences from the text. Put it into your own words as you

summarize.● Write as clearly as possible and proofread your writing when you finish.

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READING RESPONSE PRACTICE (INFORMATIONAL TEXT)

“Canadian Museum of Civilization”

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READING RESPONSE PRACTICE (NARRATIVE TEXT)

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GRAMMAR REVIEW

◻ In each booklet, there will be multiple choice questions about the use of:

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⬜ Punctuation (ex. commas, parentheses, quotation marks)

⬜ Grammar (ex. capitalization, run-on sentences, sentence fragments)

⬜ Paragraph organization (ex. topic sentences, order of sentences within a paragraph)

◻ Read the questions carefully, they will not indicate what is being assessed (grammar, punctuation, or organization)

TIME TO PRACTICE YOUR SKLLS...

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Reading a Graphic TextYou will also have to read and interpret a graphical text.

WHILE READING: 1. Read all sections of the graphic as indicated by the diagrams (arrows often indicate

the sequence of events). 2. Use the diagrams to help interpret the information provided. 3. Be aware of trick questions that use similar words found in the diagram.

WHEN ANSWERING QUESTIONS:1. Refer back to the text to locate the answer. 2. If the answer is not there directly, try to figure out the best possible answer based on

the information you are given in the text.3. Check all areas of the graphic when scanning for key words. They may appear

multiple times.4. Double check your answers with the graphic.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO REMEMBER

● Read the questions carefully. Ask yourself what exactly are they asking?● Check the graphic carefully to find the section to which the question is referring.● Use your multiple choice techniques to determine the most correct answer.● Watch for trick questions.● The answers can usually be found directly from the graphic text.

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TIME TO PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS

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WRITING A NEWSPAPER ARTICLEYou will have to write a one-page news report based on a given topic and picture. Your report must include who, what, where, when, and why. BEFORE WRITING: Brainstorm the W5H

WHILE WRITING: Include the following using small paragraphs. Indent to show paragraph changes.

❏ Introduction: State the 5 W's in about three sentences. ❏ Body: In a small paragraph, give more specific details about the who. Make sure you

include first and last names, along with background information. In a second small paragraph, describe the WHAT using specific details. In one more small paragraph, explain WHY and HOW the incident happened.

❏ Witness/quote: Include one or two quotes from a witness who is connected to the event. This can be done throughout the body or in a paragraph prior to the conclusion. Make sure you introduce your quotes using transitional words or phrases.

❏ Conclusion: Conclude your news report with an ending that re-emphasizes the central idea of the article. It is also useful to look to the future.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO REMEMBER:

● Fill the whole space provided. ● Provide an unbiased account using third person objective. A news report should just

present the facts. It is not a story.● Make sure your report reflects both the title and the picture.● Write as clearly as possible and proofread your writing when you finish.● Do not use first person: I, me, we. ● Do not speak directly to the audience using you (second person)

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SAMPLE BRAINSTORMING:

Title: Guest speaker's message inspires students. (see picture below)

Who: John ArnoldWhat: message about the environmentWhere: St. Pius X High School, Ottawa, ONWhen: Tuesday, September 10th, 2013Why: Inspire students to fix the worldHow: by telling about his own experiences

SAMPLE NEWS REPORT:

Guest speaker’s message inspires students.On Tuesday, September 10th, 2013, students at St. Pius X Catholic High School were

captivated by a special guest. John Arnold was originally greeted by a rather quiet audience at this East Ottawa high school, but they were loud with applause by the end. Mr. Arnold presented a simple message that spoke to every student in the building: “you are the difference”.

The media often tells students how one person can make a difference, but how often does that actually happen? For John Arnold, making a difference has been his life. In his motivational talk to the students, Mr. Arnold told them about his rough times in his teenage years: “I often thought, so what if I can make a difference. Nobody cares and people will keep ruining the planet,” said Mr. Arnold. He then continued to explain how he started his own organization to clean air pollution and stop ozone deterioration. Not only is he making the world a better place, he is making a lot of money too.

During a question and answer period, students wanted to know how they could get involved. Mr. Arnold told them to think big, but start small. His organization began in his garage with a metal garbage can, a fan, and his home chemistry set. Over the next ten years it would grow into a multi-million dollar franchise that is completely eco-friendly. One grade 12 student asked if he could have a summer job. Mr. Arnold's response was, “Call me when you finish college or university.” With over 5000 employees, it is suprising that Mr. Arnold can find the time to talk to students.

Not only did students learn how to make money and change the world, but they learned that they each are the difference in the world. Mr. Arnold concluded saying, “One person might not be able to make a big difference, but a million people each making a small difference sure adds up.” After a standing ovation, the students asked Mr. Arnold to come back next year to go into more detail about changing the world.

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Whole Class Practice

TIME TO PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS

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WRITE YOUR ARTICLE ON THE PAPER PROVIDED BY YOUR TEACHER

WRITING A SERIES OF PARAGRAPHS TO EXPRESS AN OPINION

Writing Strategies

You will have to write a two-page opinion piece based on a given topic. You must either agree or disagree with the topic and present a multi-paragraph response. The question will invite you to write three paragraphs, but you should write five to get your best mark.

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BEFORE WRITING: Brainstorm three main points of support with examples for each point. You can draw a bubble brainstorm or a T-chart to help orgranize ideas in the rough space. Make sure you have chosen one clear opinion - do not say you support it but also disagree with some aspects.

WHEN WRITING:You should write your response as a 5-paragraph essay:

1. Paragraph One = Introduction: ❏ Write a hook or lead to grab the reader’s attention (this is usually a statistic, scenario,

interesting fact, etc)❏ State thesis (your clear opinion where you either agree or disagree)❏ Introduce three main reasons as support. DO NOT EXPLAIN OR GIVE SPECIFIC

EXAMPLES YET! THIS IS A PREVIEW OF YOUR ESSAY!

2. Paragraphs Two: ❏ Restate the first reason (from the introduction) in the context of the thesis. ❏ Give a specific example. ❏ Explain how this example proves your thesis.

3. Paragraph Three:❏ Restate the second reason in the context of the thesis. ❏ Give example. ❏ Explain how example proves your thesis.

4. Paragraph Four ❏ Restate the third reason in the context of the thesis. Give example. Explain how

point proves your thesis.❏ Give example❏ Explain how the example proves your thesis.

5. Conclusion: Summarize all points and the main idea. Write a final closing statement.

ADDITIONAL THINGS TO REMEMBER

● Fill the whole space provided. You should have at least 3-5 sentences per paragraph.

● Your goal is to persuade the reader to agree with your opinion.

● Stick to the topic and use a variety of points/examples for support.

● Explain how your points connect to and prove your thesis (main idea).

● Write as clearly as possible and proofread your writing when you finish.

● You may use first person (I, me, we); however, it is stronger if you do not.

ex. I think that smoking should be illegal. vs. Smoking should be illegal.

SAMPLE BRAINSTORMING:

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Topic: Are today's famous people people good role models for young people?

Thesis: No, today's famous people are not good role models for young people

Point 1: They promote drug abuse and alcohol use. Example: Lindsay Lohan

Point 2: They promote sexual activity and promiscuity. Example: Britney Spears

Point 3: They waste money on expensive things. Example: Paris Hilton

SAMPLE OPINION PIECE:

Most teenagers look up to celebrities as role models and try to be like them. Today's famous people, however, are not good role models and should not be looked up to. Actors, musicians, and even athletes promote the use of drugs and alcohol, they promote sexual activity, and they waste their money on expensive items. If young people follow the example of these celebrities, our whole society will need rehab.

If you open a magazine like People, you can always find a picture of a celebrity drunk or “strung out” on drugs. Partying does go hand in hand with fame, but many famous people go overboard and become addicted. Young girls all over have looked up to Lindsay Lohan when she was in Mean Girls, but now she is known more for her partying than her acting. She has been in rehab several times, yet still continues her wild behaviour. If young teenage girls see someone like Lindsay Lohan drinking and doing drugs, then they are more likely to try it themselves than if she were clean. Most teens want to be famous and alcohol and drugs are often associated with fame.

The negative influence of celebrities on young people also stems into sexual activity. Stars are commonly married and divorced within a year. Britney Spears is a prime example of a negative female role model. In more than a few of her videos, Britney appears naked or semi-nude. What message does it send young girls when a woman has to dance naked in a music video? Not only that, but Britney's sister, Jamie-Lynn, got pregnant at the age of 16. For young girls looking up to Zoe (Jamie-Lynn) or Britney as their role model, sex and nudity would be popular. Many famous people have a damaging affect on young people through their art as well as their personal lives.

When you are rich, you have a lot of money that you do not know what to do with. Many stars go out and waste their money on ridiculously expensive name brand items or excessive mansions. Celebrities like Paris Hilton are always seen wearing the latest fashion trend. This trend, however, does not come at an affordable price. Young girls that want to be like Paris now want $1000 handbags and matching sun glasses. The main problem is that most people are not able to afford such lavish accessories. Kids are always wanting the new fashions and items that the stars have, but they can't afford them so they end up in debt or unhappy. Celebrities are creating an unrealistic sense of lifestyle that many young people are trying to achieve. The stars can afford to waste their money, but most kids can not.

Young people look up to famous people all the time, but this often does more damage than good. Celebrites promote a party lifestyle and encourage young people to drink and do drugs. They also use sex to sell themselves and promote sexual activity among youngsters. Finally, famous people waste their money on expensive items that kids want, but can not afford. In the end, it is the young people that will suffer, not the stars.

TIME TO PRACTICE YOUR SKILLS

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WRITE YOUR ESSAY ON THE PAPER PROVIDED BY YOUR TEACHER

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