What is functional illiteracy?
Q: What is functional illiteracy?
A: Functional illiteracy means that a person has difficulty reading, writing, and doing math in regular life.
Q: How is functional illiteracy different from full illiteracy?
A: A person who is fully illiterate cannot read, write, or do math at all, while someone who is functionally illiterate has been taught these skills but has trouble using them in daily life.
Q: What are some reasons why adults who are functionally illiterate try to avoid reading and writing?
A: Adults who are functionally illiterate may avoid reading and writing because they find it difficult or because they are embarrassed about their lack of skills.
Q: Can a functionally illiterate person write their name?
A: Yes, a person who is functionally illiterate may be able to write their name, but it is difficult for them to write more than a few sentences.
Q: What are some tasks that a functionally illiterate person may have trouble with when confronted with printed materials?
A: A functionally illiterate person may have trouble filling out forms, understanding contracts, following written instructions, reading newspaper articles, understanding traffic signs, consulting a dictionary, and understanding a bus schedule.
Q: Why do functionally illiterate people have trouble using modern communication technologies?
A: Functionally illiterate people may have trouble using modern communication technologies, such as personal computers or mobile phones, because these technologies rely heavily on reading and writing skills.
Q: Can functional illiteracy be prevented or improved?
A: Yes, functional illiteracy can be prevented or improved through education and literacy programs.
