OSSLT Information

OSSLT

Information about the dates for the OSSLT will be shared on our website under Important News on the main page of our website. Please note that in the 2023-24 school year there will be a Fall and Spring writing session.

Additional information is available on the EQAO website.  https://www.eqao.com/the-assessments/osslt/

OSSLT Test Format

The OSSLT is a computer-based assessment that comprises two 60 minutes sessions (Session A and Session B) containing a total of 33 questions: 31 multiple-select questions (e.g., multiple-choice, drag and drop, drop-down menu, checklist, text selection) and two constructed open-response questions. The OSSLT uses a testlet-based linear on-the-fly (tLOFT) design. In this method, test forms are generated in real time through the selection of pre-constructed and pre-equated groups of questions and, where applicable, the associated reading selections.  

OSSLT Fast Facts

What is the Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT)?

The Grade 10 test is based on the reading and writing expectations in all subject areas up to the end of Grade 9. These skills are the basis for learning in all subject areas throughout both elementary and secondary school.

Who has to write it?

All students in Ontario who entered Grade 9 in September 2000 or later and are working toward an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) must write this test.

Why is it written in Grade 10?

It shows students how strong their literacy skills are while they still have time to improve them before finishing school.

What about students with special needs?

The standard and content of the test cannot be modified for anyone, but the test conditions can be changed. Students will be provided with accommodations as specified by EQAO when documented in their Individual Education Plan (IEP).

Can students who are not ready be exempted from writing the test?

Parents and/or principals may decide it is in a student’s best interest to defer writing the test until a later date. For example, an ESL student may need more time to develop language skills before writing the test.

When will I receive my results?

Each student will receive his or her Individual Student Report by the end of the school year. The report indicates if a student passed or was unsuccessful and is sent to the site where the student wrote the test. Only students who are unsuccessful will receive specific feedback about the skills they need to work on to pass.

What happens to students who do not pass the test? 

Students may retake the test the following year. For some students, the best option is to take the Grade 12 Literacy Course and receive direct instruction in needed areas while earning an additional credit towards graduation. Please note that students must have an unsuccessful attempt before they are permitted to take the test.

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