What is low literacy? What is limited English proficiency?
National surveys have determined that about 20 percent of Americans are “low literate;” i.e., they read and comprehend in English below a fifth-grade level. Another 25 percent of Americans have literacy skills below a seventh-grade level. The 2000 Census found that about 18 percent of Americans speak a language other than English at home. Limited-English proficiency individuals have low English literacy and may or may not be literate in their primary language. In many cases, there is a direct correlation between low literacy, limited English proficiency, low educational attainment, and low income. Failing to account for variety in cultural expectations, language, literacy, or income and affordability can create barriers to full participation. In order to have participation that can ultimately inform decision-making, agencies must identify the project area demographic(s) and develop an effective approach for outreach and communication. A participant at the National Congress of American
Related Questions
- Does the Commission provide interpreters for appellants who have limited English proficiency or who are deaf or hard of hearing?
- What are ways to access documented indicators of literacy and limited English proficiency at a sub-State level?
- Do the writing gateways apply to students with disabilities/students with limited English proficiency?
