OSSLT - Ontario Secondary School Literacy Understanding Supporting Details Questions and Answers

Question 1

Read the following paragraph:

'The city's new recycling program has been a resounding success. In the first six months, the amount of recycled material collected increased by 40%. This increase is largely due to the distribution of new, larger recycling bins to all households, a comprehensive public awareness campaign, and the introduction of a bi-weekly collection schedule. A recent survey showed that 92% of residents are now actively participating in the program.'

Which of the following is a supporting detail, not the main idea?

Accepted Answer

The city distributed new, larger recycling bins to all households.

Answer

The correct answer provides a specific reason or example that supports the main idea. The main idea is the overall success of the recycling program. The distribution of new bins is one specific action (a detail) that contributed to this success.

Question 2

A news report about a new community garden includes a quote from a local resident: 'I've met so many of my neighbors since I started volunteering here. It's wonderful to see people of all ages working together, sharing gardening tips, and just enjoying the sunshine.' What main idea does this resident's quote support?

Accepted Answer

The community garden helps build social connections.

Answer

The resident's quote provides specific examples (meeting neighbors, working together, sharing tips) that all point to the broader idea that the garden is fostering a sense of community and helping people connect with one another.

Question 3

Read this excerpt from a set of instructions:

'To assemble the bookcase, first, identify all parts using the diagram on page 2. Next, attach the side panels (A) to the bottom shelf (B) using the provided screws (C). Do not overtighten the screws. Finally, carefully slide the back panel (D) into the grooves on the side panels.'

What is the purpose of the detail 'Do not overtighten the screws'?

Accepted Answer

To provide a precaution to prevent damage.

Answer

This detail is a specific instruction that helps the user avoid a potential problem, such as stripping the screw or cracking the wood. It supports the overall goal of assembling the bookcase correctly and safely.

Question 4

An article argues that schools should start later in the morning for teenagers. Which of the following statements would best support this main idea?

Accepted Answer

Studies show that adolescent sleep cycles shift, making it hard for them to fall asleep early.

Answer

This statement provides a scientific, factual reason that directly explains *why* a later start time would be beneficial for teenagers. It supports the main argument by linking it to the biological needs of adolescents.

Question 5

Read the following paragraph:

'The Sahara Desert is the largest hot desert in the world, covering over 9 million square kilometers. Despite its arid conditions, it is home to a variety of specially adapted animals, such as the Fennec fox and the Addax antelope. The landscape is not uniform; it features vast sand seas, or ergs, as well as rocky plateaus and salt flats. Temperatures can be extreme, often exceeding 40°C during the day and dropping below freezing at night.'

Which detail from the paragraph supports the idea that the Sahara's landscape is varied?

Accepted Answer

It features sand seas, rocky plateaus, and salt flats.

Answer

The correct answer explicitly lists different types of geographical features found within the Sahara (sand seas, plateaus, salt flats), directly supporting the statement that the landscape is not uniform but varied.

OSSLT - Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test Practice Test

OSSLT - Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test Practice Test

OSSLT - Ontario Secondary School Literacy Understanding Supporting Details Questions and Answers