L9 Meeting the Needs of Low Literacy Groups

Question 1

Results of low literacy groups

Answer 1

• Take words literally
• Read slowly, miss meaning
• Skip over unfamiliar words
• Miss the context
• Tire quickly

Question 2

Results of high literacy groups

Answer 2

Interpret meaning
• Read with fluency
• Get help for uncommon words
• Grasp the content
• Persistent reader

Question 3

Red flags for low literacy

Answer 3

• Frequently missed appointments
• Incomplete registration forms
• Non-compliance with medication
• Unable to name medications, explain purpose or dosing
• Identifies pills by looking at them, not reading label
• Unable to give coherent, sequential history
• Ask fewer questions
• Lack of follow-through on tests or referrals

Question 4

What are some tips for plain language?

Answer 4

1. Use short words and sentences
2. Use the active voice
3. Use everyday words
4. Avoid clichés, idioms and slang
5. Avoid abbreviations and acronyms
6. Write instructions in the order that you want them carried out
7. Write directly to your user
8. Don’t change verbs into nouns