Louis Harris and Associates
"Survival Literacy" Study - 1970

In 1970 the Louis Harris polling organization surveyed adults chosen to represent a cross section of the overall population. Those interviewed were asked to fill out five common application forms.

Figure 30 summarizes data averaged over all five forms. The data show the percentage who scored 70 percent correct or better, 80 percent correct or better, and 90 percent correct or better. Because 70 percent correct is a lower criterion, more people score at that level and above than at the more demanding criterion of 90 percent and above. Thus, whereas 92 percent of adults with 8th grade education or less scored 70 percent or better, only 76 percent scored 90 percent or better correct.

Figures 31 and 32 show two of the forms and the responses in percent correct for adults having three levels of education. As indicated in figure 32, the Medicaid form was particularly difficult, with only 54 percent of those with an 8th grade education or less getting 90-100 percent correct. Even many college educated adults had trouble completing the Medicaid form.