The Literacy Test (OSSLT)

The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) is given every year to assess the reading and writing abilities of Grade 10 students. Its purpose is to determine whether or not students have acquired the literacy (reading and writing) skills that they are expected to have learned by the end of Grade 9, as outlined in The Ontario Curriculum.

The test also provides Ontario schools with information that will assist them in improvement planning. Students who are unsuccessful can retake the test. Students who have been unsuccessful at least once are eligible to fulfill the requirement in grade 11 or 12 through the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Course (OSSLC).

Please Note: Successful completion of the OSSLT or the OSSLC is a graduation requirement.

Preparing for the OSSLT

Lasalle Secondary School uses a variety of methods to help students prepare for the OSSLT. Some of these methods include:

Practice Test – Booklet 1
take-home support materials can also be provided

Students are encouraged to go to the “Student” section on the EQAO website. Become familiar with what types of reading and writing tasks are required to be completed for each booklet.

For more information, please contact the Ms. Austin-O’Hare, Literacy Program Leader.

The EQAO website contains a variety of materials including sample tests and answers, tips for students, and other strategies parents can use to help their children prepare for the OSSLT. Visit www.eqao.com.