OSSLT - Ontario Secondary School Literacy Analyzing Information Paragraphs Questions and Answers — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Read the following memo from a company's management: 'To enhance productivity and focus, we are implementing 'Meeting-Free Wednesdays.' All recurring internal meetings on this day will be cancelled. This day is intended to be a dedicated time for deep work on individual projects. We trust our teams to use this time effectively to move their key initiatives forward.' What can be inferred about the company's view of its previous work environment?
- The company believes employees were not working hard enough.
- The company feels that too many meetings were hindering employee productivity. (Correct answer)
- The company is planning to transition to a four-day work week.
- The company thinks that all meetings are unnecessary.
Correct answer: The company feels that too many meetings were hindering employee productivity.
The memo explicitly states the goal is to provide 'dedicated time for deep work' by cancelling recurring meetings. This directly implies that the previous number of meetings was seen as an obstacle to focused, productive work.
Question 2: Read the following paragraph: The rise of online food delivery services has significantly impacted the restaurant industry. While these platforms offer restaurants a way to reach a wider customer base, they also charge substantial commission fees, often between 15% and 30% of each order. For many small, independent restaurants, these fees can drastically reduce their already slim profit margins, making it difficult to stay in business. How does the paragraph explain the relationship between food delivery services and small restaurants?
- It compares the marketing strategies of different restaurants.
- It presents a chronological history of the restaurant industry.
- It shows how one development has both positive and negative effects on a group. (Correct answer)
- It argues that all restaurants should create their own delivery systems.
Correct answer: It shows how one development has both positive and negative effects on a group.
The paragraph outlines a cause-and-effect relationship. The cause is the rise of delivery services, which has the positive effect of a wider customer base but the negative effect of high commission fees that hurt profits. It presents both sides of the impact.
Question 3: Read the following paragraph: The city's recent transportation survey revealed that the average commute time has increased by 15 minutes over the last two years. A separate air quality report noted a spike in pollutants during morning and evening rush hours. Additionally, a business association study found that employees arriving late due to traffic is costing local companies thousands of dollars in lost productivity. Which statement best summarizes the main idea that connects the information in this paragraph?
- Air quality in the city is getting worse.
- Local companies are losing money for various reasons.
- The city needs to conduct more surveys about daily life.
- Worsening traffic congestion is causing multiple problems for the city. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Worsening traffic congestion is causing multiple problems for the city.
The paragraph does not focus on just one issue. Instead, it presents three distinct problems (longer commutes, pollution, lost productivity) that are all linked to a single root cause: increased traffic congestion.
Question 4: Read the following paragraph about athletic performance: 'Proper hydration is crucial for athletic performance. Water helps regulate body temperature, transport nutrients, and prevent muscle cramps. For endurance athletes, in particular, dehydration can lead to a significant drop in stamina and focus. For instance, studies have shown that losing just 2% of one's body weight in fluid can impair performance by as much as 25%.' What is the main purpose of including the statistic about a '2% of one's body weight' fluid loss?
- To provide a specific, quantifiable example of how seriously dehydration can affect performance. (Correct answer)
- To encourage all athletes to weigh themselves before and after exercise.
- To suggest that most athletes are dehydrated.
- To list all the scientific studies ever conducted on hydration.
Correct answer: To provide a specific, quantifiable example of how seriously dehydration can affect performance.
The statistic serves as concrete evidence to support the general claim that dehydration is harmful to athletic performance. It makes the abstract idea of a 'significant drop' more specific and impactful by using numbers.
Question 5: Read the following paragraph: The abandoned amusement park was a skeleton of its former self. A Ferris wheel, rusted and unmoving, stood stark against the grey sky. Weeds grew through cracks in the pavement where crowds once walked. The only sound was the faint, mournful creak of a carousel horse swinging in the wind. What is the overall mood created by the details in this paragraph?
- Exciting and lively
- Peaceful and calm
- Sadness and decay (Correct answer)
- Mysterious and suspenseful
Correct answer: Sadness and decay
Words like 'abandoned,' 'skeleton,' 'rusted,' 'weeds,' and 'mournful creak' all contribute to a feeling of neglect, loss, and sadness for what used to be a vibrant place.
Question 6: Read the following paragraph: 'To conserve energy at home, there are several simple steps one can take. Replacing older incandescent light bulbs with modern LEDs can significantly reduce electricity consumption. Sealing drafts around windows and doors prevents heat loss in the winter and keeps cool air in during the summer. Additionally, unplugging electronics when they are not in use, or using a power strip to turn them all off at once, can stop 'phantom' power draw.' Based on the paragraph, which of the following is NOT described as a method for conserving energy?
- Improving the home's insulation against air leaks.
- Upgrading to more efficient lighting technology.
- Reducing the use of electronics that draw power even when off.
- Installing solar panels on the roof. (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Installing solar panels on the roof.
The paragraph details three specific methods for saving energy: using LED bulbs, sealing drafts, and unplugging electronics. It makes no mention of generating your own power through solar panels.
OSSLT - Ontario Secondary School Literacy Analyzing Information Paragraphs Questions and Answers
Read the following memo from a company's management:
'To enhance productivity and focus, we are implementing 'Meeting-Free Wednesdays.' All recurring internal meetings on this day will be cancelled.
This day is intended to be a dedicated time for deep work on individual projects.
We trust our teams to use this time effectively to move their key initiatives forward.'
What can be inferred about the company's view of its previous work environment?