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 city's new recycling program is successful.

Answer

Most residents are participating in the new program.

Answer

Recycling has a positive impact on the environment.

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 garden is located in a sunny area.

Answer

Volunteering at the garden requires a lot of work.

Answer

People of all ages enjoy gardening.

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

To suggest an alternative assembly method.

Answer

To indicate which part is the most important.

Answer

To describe the appearance of the finished bookcase.

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

Many teenagers have after-school jobs or sports.

Answer

School buses would have to run on a different schedule.

Answer

Some teachers prefer to start their workday early in the morning.

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

It is the largest hot desert in the world.

Answer

Temperatures can be extreme.

Answer

It is home to animals like the Fennec fox.

Question 6

A passage describes the life of a famous musician. It mentions that she began playing piano at age three, composed her first song at age seven, and won a national competition at age twelve. What do these details primarily support?

Accepted Answer

She demonstrated remarkable musical talent from a very young age.

Answer

Her music was popular with a wide audience.

Answer

She had many different hobbies as a child.

Answer

Winning competitions is the only way to become a famous musician.