framework-osslt

Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test Framework

Definition of Literacy for the OSSLT

  • Literacy is a foundation for learning; achieves "success for all" in education.

  • For the OSSLT, literacy includes:

    • Reading and writing skills for understanding selections and various written forms.

    • Expected across all subjects till end of Grade 9.

Alignment with The Ontario Curriculum

  • OSSLT grounded in Ontario Curriculum expectations for reading and writing skills up until Grade 9.

  • Vision and Goals from The Ontario Curriculum, Grade 9: English (2023):

    • Literacy essential for academic success, social, emotional, and physical health.

    • Grade 9 English course develops literacy skills necessary for education and life.

    • Language is crucial for thinking, communicating, and learning.

    • Encourages clear communication using various media and becomes lifelong learners.

Emphasis on Literacy in The Ontario Curriculum

  • Central role of literacy seen in every subject area:

    • Language skills deepen conceptual understanding and knowledge in all subjects.

    • Emphasis is placed on teaching literacy explicitly, tailoring it to specific subjects.

Goals of Grade 9 Science

  • Develop skills for scientific investigation.

  • Relate science to current societal changes (technology, environment, etc.).

  • Understand scientific concepts, enhancing overall scientific literacy.

Goals of Ontario Mathematics Curriculum

  • Equip students with key skills for:

    • Recognizing and valuing multiple math perspectives.

    • Making informed decisions in local and global contexts.

    • Adapting to changes and synthesizing new ideas.

    • Effective communication and critical thinking beyond school.

Vision of Adolescent Literacy

  • All students equipped with:

    • Critical and creative thinking skills.

    • Effective communication and collaboration skills.

    • Innovative problem-solving abilities to achieve personal and societal goals.

Literacy Skills in Canadian and World Studies Curriculum

  • Involve:

    • Reading, interpreting, analyzing diverse texts (diaries, legislation, interviews).

    • Using precise terminology and care in language for effective communication.

Literacy Skills in Social Sciences and Humanities Curriculum

  • Activities enhance:

    • Understanding sources and evaluating arguments.

    • Presenting findings across various formats (oral, visual, written).

    • Usage of correct terminology and careful language for communication.

OSSLT - Assessment Strategy

  • Components of OSSLT:

    • Reading Component:

      • Strategies to interact with readings, responding to questions.

      • Focus on:

        1. Explicitly stated information.

        2. Implicit information (making inferences).

        3. Personal connections to the readings.

    • Writing Component:

      • Responding to questions and composing an opinion essay.

      • Focus on:

        1. Developing a main idea.

        2. Coherent organization of ideas.

        3. Correct use of conventions (spelling, grammar).

Assessment Process Overview

  • OSSLT is a computer-based assessment:

    • Two sessions (Session A and B)

      • Each has field-test and operational components; only operational items contribute to results.

      • Structure:

        • Session A: ~65 minutes; Session B: ~75 minutes.

        • Consists of 37 questions in total:

          • 35 selected-response questions

          • 2 open-response questions.

Structure of OSSLT Assessment

  • Sessions include:

    • Reading selections: real-life narratives, informational paragraphs, news reports, dialogues.

    • Number of questions:

      • Reading: 24 questions
        - Writing: 13 questions (selected-response + opinion essay).

Scoring of OSSLT

  • Scoring Breakdown:

    • Selected-response: Computer scored (55 points, 71%).

    • Open-response: Educator scored (23 points, 29%).

    • Total score: 78 points.

OSSLT Link to The Ontario Curriculum

  • Reading and writing tasks tested link to overall and specific expectations in the curriculum.

    • Sample expectations:

      • English: Understanding complex texts, vocabulary usage, grammar, and meaning of texts.

      • Science: Explanation of natural phenomena and the impact of human activities on ecosystems.

Reporting After OSSLT

  • Individual Student Report (ISR) includes:

    • Score indicating successful or not yet successful outcomes.

    • Feedback for improvement for those not achieving successful outcomes.

    • Notes for students absent, exempted, or without sufficient evidence.