Sample IALS Questions

Prose Level 1

Score range: 0 to 225

Most of the tasks at this level require the reader to locate one piece of information in the text that is identical or synonymous to the information given in the directive. If a plausible incorrect answer is present in the text, it tends not to be near the correct information.

Tasks at this level require the reader to locate and match a single piece of information in the text. Typically the match between the task and the text is literal, although sometimes a low-level inference may be necessary. The text is usually brief or has organisational aids such as paragraph headings or italics that suggest where in the text the reader should search for the specified information. Generally, the target word or phrase appears only once in the text.

The easiest task in Level 1 (difficulty value of 188) directs respondents to look at a medicine label to determine the “maximum number of days you should take this medicine.” The label contains only one reference to number of days and this information is located under the heading “DOSAGE.” The reader must go to this part of the label and locate the phrase “not longer than 7 days.”

In Canada, 22% of adults are performing at Level 1.

500

MEDCO ASPIRIN

INDICATIONS: Headaches, muscle pains, rheumatic pains, toothaches, earaches. RELIEVES COMMON COLD SYMPTOMS

DOSAGE: ORAL. 1 or 2 tablets every 6 hours, preferably accompanied by food, for not longer than 7 days. Store in a cool, dry place.

CAUTION: Do not use for gastritis or peptic ulcer. Do not use if taking anticoagulant drugs. Do not use for serious liver illness or bronchial asthma. If taken in large doses and for an extended period, may cause harm to kidneys. Before using this medication for chicken pox or influenza in children, consult with a doctor about Reyes Syndrome, a rare but serious illness. During lactation and pregnancy, consult with a doctor before using this product, especially in the last trimester of pregnancy. If symptoms persist, or in case of an accidental overdose, consult a doctor. Keep out of reach of children.

UPC bar

INGREDIENTS: Each tablet contains
500 mg acetylsalicicylic acid.
Excipient c.b.p. 1 tablet.
Reg. No. 88246

Made in Canada by STERLING PRODUCTS, INC.
1600 Industrial Blvd., Montreal, Quebec H9J 3P1