Revised trial version 2006-2007

This item was produced as part of a suite of tools to assess learners for Skills for Life programmes.
The tools were developed as part of a project which ran from 2003-2006. The project was jointly led
by AlphaPlus Consultancy Ltd and BTL Group Ltd on behalf of the Skills for Life Strategy Unit (DfES).
These tools are part of an ongoing development process.
Feedback on the tools is therefore being encouraged and can be sent by email to:
assessment.feedback@qia.gsi.gov.uk
AlphaPlus Consultancy Ltd and BTL Group Ltd would like to thank all those who took part in the trials
and contributed to the tools.
Support is available at:
Website: www.toolslibrary.co.uk
Technical Support: 01274 203 270
General Support: 01274 203 276
E-mail: toolslibrary@btl.com
Copies of this publication can be obtained from:
DfES Publications
PO Box 5050
Sherwood Park
Annesley
Nottingham
NG15 0DJ
Tel: 0845 6022260
Fax: 0845 6033360
Textphone: 0845 6055560

Version 1

E-mail: dfes@prolog.uk.com
Please quote ref: IALIT

Literacy

Extracts from this tool and supporting documents may be reproduced for non-commercial research,
education or training purposes, provided they are used accurately and not in a misleading context,
and on the condition that the source is acknowledged. For any other use please contact
HMSOlicensing@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk

Initial Assessment
Assessor Guide and Learner Answer Booklet

Crown Copyright 2006

Published by the Department for Education and Skills

Skills for Life: the national strategy for improving adult

literacy and numeracy skills

Millions of adults in England need help to improve their literacy, language and numeracy
skills. Skills for Life, launched by the Prime Minister in 2001, sets out the Governments
strategy, which aims to help 2.25 million learners gain a national qualification by 2010.
`
Since 2001 a massive 3.7 million adults across England have taken up 7.8 million courses
in literacy, language and numeracy skills. 1,130,000 of these learners have gone on to
achieve at least one first qualification.
Since the launch of Skills for Life, we have gained an even greater insight into the
effect low levels of literacy and numeracy skills have on individuals, their families, on the
economy and on society. For example, adults with poor literacy and numeracy skills could
earn up to 50,000 less over their lifetime and are more likely to have health problems,
to live in a disadvantaged area or to be unemployed. They and their children risk being
cut off from the benefits of a world increasingly linked through information technology.
Additionally, poor literacy, language and numeracy skills have been estimated to cost the
country in excess of 10 billion a year.
Skills for Life is an ambitious strategy that is designed to address literacy, language and
numeracy needs of all adults and young people. It covers all post-16 learners on learning
programmes at levels from pre-Entry up to and including Level 2. These programmes
range from discrete to embedded courses, and from classroom and community provision
to voluntary and work-based learning. Achievement and progress in Skills for Life are
recognised through certification of Key Skills, GCSE Maths and English, and adult literacy
and numeracy. It is therefore crucial that the strategy supports and reflects the successful
implementation of all other post-16 strategies. These strategies include Success for All,
the strategy for reforming post-16 further education, and the Skills Strategy, which aims to
ensure that the skills we develop are valuable to young people and valued by employers.
Our goal to improve the skills of young people is also central to the Opportunity and
Excellence 1419 strategy, the 14

19 Education and Skills White

Paper
(published
2005) and the Schools White Paper: Higher Standards, Better Schools for All
(published 2005).
Each organisation and individual has a contribution to make. We believe that the most
important element for successful delivery of Skills for Life is partnership, together with
the ownership of the strategy by all our key supporting and development partners.

Government departments, the Learning and Skills Council (LSC), Jobcentre Plus, the Prison
and Probation Services, development and learning providers in the post-16 learning
sector, businesses, the CBI, the TUC, Sector Skills Councils and many other organisations
are working together to improve the literacy, language and numeracy skills of adults
through:
Learner and employer engagement
To engage and increase participation of young people and adults from priority
groups in Skills for Life learning, through targeted activities within and across
Government and its agencies, the workplace and the community.
Ensuring capacity
To improve the planning and funding of Skills for Life provision so that literacy,
language and numeracy provision is effective and well co-ordinated.
Improving quality
To improve standards and quality in teaching and learning in literacy, language
and numeracy, to remodel and professionalise the Skills for Life workforce.
Improving achievement and progression
To improve outcomes in literacy, language and numeracy provision and
progression onto further learning and assess impact on social inclusion and
economic outcomes.

Skills for Life Strategy Unit

This item was produced as part of a suite of tools to assess learners for Skills for Life programmes.
The tools were developed as part of a project from 2003-2006. The project was jointly led by AlphaPlus
Consultancy Ltd and BTL Group Ltd on behalf of the Skills for Life Strategy Unit (DfES).
AlphaPlus Consultancy Ltd and BTL Group Ltd would like to thank all those who took part in the trials and
contributed to the tools.

Literacy

Initial assessment
For use in general, community-based settings
Assessor Guide and Learner Answer Booklet
What is an initial assessment?
The literacy initial assessment tool is designed to indicate the approximate skills level
of a learner up to, and including, Level 2. It forms part of the Skills for Life Learning
Journey, following on from the skills check (previously referred to as the Screening
process) and leading on to diagnostic assessment.

What skills does the tool assess?

The tool is designed to assess a learners skills in:
listening
reading
writing.
All questions address criteria in the Adult Literacy Core Curriculum and national
standards. Questions begin at Entry 1 and increase in difficulty to Level 2. Questions
relate broadly to everyday domestic and community settings.
There are 40 questions altogether.
Dictionaries are not allowed.

How much time will be needed?

Initial assessments are not tests and are not timed. Learners should be encouraged

Page 1

to finish in their own time and not to rush. However, 5060 minutes should prove
adequate in most cases. Many learners will require far less time than this; a few may
need a little more time. Assessors should look out for learners who appear to be
having problems and invite them to stop.

Who should supervise the initial assessment?

The assessments should be conducted by fully trained individuals. The interpretation
of the assessment results and feedback should be overseen by an experienced
Skills for Life practitioner.

Under what conditions should the assessment take place?

A room (or reasonably private space) is needed in which learners can complete the
assessment undisturbed. Learners will require:

tables and chairs

copies of the learner answer booklet
CD players or cassette players with headphones, where necessary
blue/black pens.

How should the tools be introduced to learners?

Explain:
the purpose of the initial assessment and why the information it will provide will
help the learner(s)
that this is not a test and that all results are confidential
that the learner(s) should try to answer as many questions as they can
that they can take as much time as they need but that 5060 minutes should
be enough
that they should stop if they get tired or are finding the questions too hard
how to use the CD or audio cassette player and headphones.
When ready, read out the brief instructions on the first page of the learner
answer booklet.
Page 2

What needs to be done during the assessment?

Ensure that everyone is coping with the audio CD or cassette player
and headphones.
Ensure that everyone is coping with the questions.
Keep an eye on proceedings to ensure that the assessment is going smoothly
and look out for learners who appear to be struggling.
Invite learners who are experiencing difficulties to stop.
Provide assistance for anyone with a known disability.

What needs to be done at the end of the assessment?

Collect in the learner answer booklets.
Thank learners for taking part and explain what will happen next, namely that
you will mark the answers and give feedback on the results as soon as you can.
Mark the answers using this guide and enter a score on each page of the
answer booklet.
Add up the learners total score. Please double check the scores and make sure
that you have added them correctly.
Read off the table below to determine the level attained.
Marks

ENTRY 1

5 12

ENTRY 2 13 20
ENTRY 3 21 28
LEVEL 1 29 36
LEVEL 2 37 40
Note: learners with 4 marks or fewer are judged to be working towards Entry level.

Page 3

What feedback should be given?

All learners should be given feedback on their performance.
As a minimum, they should be told the level they have attained.
The Adult Core Curriculum reference for each question is included in this assessor
guide so that an assessor can provide more detailed feedback, if required.
It is important that feedback is treated with complete confidentiality and
considerable sensitivity, and that learners are clear that the initial assessment is
simply a stepping stone to more thorough diagnostic assessment.

Are the tools suitable for all learners?

This tool includes a range of questions designed to assess skills from Entry 1 to
Level 2. It is not designed to identify individuals operating at pre-Entry levels or at
Level 3 or above. The tool is linear: the questions become progressively harder. As a
result, the assessment could prove off-putting for weaker learners if it is not dealt with
sensitively. An experienced assessor will soon learn when to halt the assessment,
if necessary.

What about English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) learners?

The tools are not designed to cater specifically for ESOL learners. Separate ESOL initial
assessment tools for speaking and listening, reading and writing are available from
the DfES.
When ordering the ESOL initial assessment please quote:
IASLESOL
Speaking & Listening (paper-based)
IARWESOL

Reading & Writing (paper-based)

IAESOLCD

ESOL (computer-based)

You can order the materials:

by phone on 0845 602 2260
by email from: dfes@prolog.uk.com

Page 4

Are the tools suitable for people with disabilities and/or learning
difficulties?
It is a requirement of all Skills for Life teaching that each learner be treated
according to their needs. This principle applies to assessment as much as to any
other aspect of the Learning Journey, but it may raise particular issues regards
learners with disabilities. These tools have been designed to be used with as wide a
range of learners as possible.
For learners with physical disabilities, you will need to consider well in advance what
adaptation to the tools you may need to make (e.g. enlarging the print). Questions
can be read to learners if necessary. However, you must be careful not to read the
question or use another language in a way that guides the learner to a
particular answer.
Assessors may sit alongside learners and enter answers on their behalf, if needed.
The important things to remember are that these are not tests and that their purpose
is to determine skill levels. As long as assessors are not answering the questions,
any reasonable help is permitted.
Learners with learning difficulties may, however, find the tools challenging, especially
if they have severe reading difficulties. The experienced assessor will need to judge
the suitability of the tools for each learner.

The next step: diagnostic assessment

After this initial assessment it may be appropriate for learners to undergo a more
detailed diagnostic assessment.
Diagnostic assessment is an evaluation of a learners skills, strengths and
weaknesses. This is carried out with the assessor in either an individual or group
setting. This assessment gives a thorough indication not only of the individuals level
at that precise moment, but also of the specific skill areas that they need to improve.

Page 5

As part of Skills for Life, the DfES funded the production of diagnostic assessment
materials and learning materials referenced to the national standards and curriculum
documents. These diagnostic assessment packs are available from DfES Publications
(as is another publication, Introducing Access for All, which has useful guidance).
Each diagnostic assessment pack contains:
paper-based task books for the relevant subject
a teacher administration manual for each subject, including pre-Entry materials
a CD-ROM with the full version of all the paper-based tasks.
The best and most efficient way to carry out the diagnostic assessment is to use the
interactive CD-ROM, which automatically prints off the individual learning plans (ILPs)
for the learner. This is a fully interactive tool and is highly recommended.
You can order the materials:
by phone on 0845 602 2260
by email from: dfes@prolog.uk.com.
You can download Introducing Access for All from:
http://www.dfes.gov.uk/readwriteplus/bank/Introducing%20Access%20for%20All.pdf
The table below provides the reference codes you will need to order the materials.
DfES
reference number

Diagnostic assessment materials

DAM1

Diagnostic Assessment Material Pack for Literacy

DAM2

Diagnostic Assessment Material Pack for Numeracy

DAM3

Diagnostic Assessment Material Pack for ESOL

DAM4

Diagnostic Assessment Material Pack for Dyslexia

DAM6

Diagnostic Assessment Interactive CD-ROM

DAM7

Diagnostic Assessment Acrobat PDFs

Page 6

AUDIO SCRIPT

Question 1
Narrator:
You telephone your doctor to ask for a home visit for a member of your family.
Listen to the message and then tick the correct button.

Female:
Welcome to Ambrose Surgery.
For results of medical tests, press zero.
If you require a repeat prescription, press 1.
For an appointment to see a doctor, press 2.
To request a home visit, press 3.
For medical reports or certificates, press 4.
To hear these options again, press star.

Narrator:
Tick the correct button.

Question 2
Narrator:
Listen to the following information carefully.

Female:
Ive been a coach driver now for 12 years, although Ive actually worked for the
company for 18 years. I joined the company when I was 20 and I worked in the
office for 6 years. Then one day a driver bet me I couldnt drive a bus. That did it!
Ive been driving ever since.

Narrator:
For how long has the woman interviewed worked for the company?

Page 7

AUDIO SCRIPT

Question 3
Narrator:
Listen to this message which was left on an answerphone. It will be played once
only. When it ends you will be asked a question.

Male:
Hello. This is Choice Holidays calling for Abdul Khan. We are calling to let you know
that your flight tickets are now ready for collection. Over the next 30 days, we are
offering a 50% reduction in the cost of buying Travellers Cheques. Remember, you
will need to show your passport when buying Travellers Cheques.

Narrator:
Which is the correct message to leave on a notepad for Abdul?

Question 4
Narrator:
Listen to the recording and follow the map. When you are ready, answer the
question in your workbook.

Female:
Hi, George and Anna glad you can both make the party on Saturday at my place.
Hope you got the map I sent. Like a fool, I forgot to put instructions on the map, so
here they are!
When you arrive at the station, go to the end of the road.
Turn left at the junction and then take the second right.
Walk to the next road and turn right again.
Our house is facing you at the very end of the road.

Narrator:
In which square is the house where the party is being held?

Page 8

AUDIO SCRIPT

Question 5
Narrator:
Listen to this person speaking to a friend on the phone.

Female:
Hello, Joyce, its Emma. What a day! What a disaster! It was supposed to be my
day off George and the kids had already gone when I got up only to find the
fridge door had been left open and the milk had gone off. I then managed to trip
over the kids toy box and nearly break my ankle. And then, to cap it all, when I
went to have a shower, the plug hole was bunged up with goodness knows what,
and I had to call the plumber.

Narrator:
Were Emmas disasters caused by her children?
Tick one box.

Question 6
Narrator:
Listen to Janet talking about her life. When you are ready, answer the question.

Female:
My name is Janet. Ive lived in Leeds all my life. Right now Im running my own
business as a florist. Ive not always done this job. When I left school I went straight
into work at the local textiles factory. I was only 16. My dad didnt approve. Hed
worked in factories all his life. After a few years I got disillusioned. Why? Well, the
work was very dull and business was bad. I decided to get out before I got made
redundant. I went to the local college and took a course in floristry. I got a job here
14 years ago and when the owner retired, in 1998, I took over the business. Its
been fantastic. Dad died in 1990, but I like to think he would have approved.

Page 9

AUDIO SCRIPT

Narrator:
From what you have heard, which of the following is correct?
Circle A, B, C or D.

Question 7
Narrator:
Listen to this description of an accident. Write numbers below the words to show
the sequence in which they appeared in the description of the accident.

Male:
Well, it was like this ... It was raining hard. The accident happened at about 5pm,
during the rush hour. I was returning home when a white van veered across the
motorway causing a red Fiesta to brake and hit the central reservation. I braked
hard and my car, an Astra, went into a spin. Before I knew it, other vehicles were
piling into me and the motorway was blocked. I was luckier than most and got
away with just cuts and bruises. Others had to be cut out of their vehicles by
firefighters, who were quick on the scene.

Narrator:
Write numbers below the words to show the sequence in which they appeared in
the description of the accident.

Question 8
Narrator:
Listen to this conversation. It will be played once only. When it has finished, answer
the question.

Female 1:
Shirley, as my chief bridesmaid, I need your advice: should we book the wedding
for August or later, in October? Ive checked with the caterers and they can do
either.

Page 10

AUDIO SCRIPT

Female 2:
I dont have any strong preference. Although ... some people may have booked
holidays for August; but there again, the weather can be a bit unkind in October
for the outdoor marquee you wanted. I tend to like autumn weddings myself, they
seem more romantic. Have you asked Mike yet? Perhaps we ought to hear what
he has to say?

Narrator:
From what you have heard, which of the following is correct?
Circle A, B, C or D.

Page 11

PART A LISTENING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

For each of the next ten questions, listen to the audio CD/cassette and
answer each question in this answer booklet. You may replay the CD/
cassette as many times as you wish.
01

SLlr/E2.2

Tick the correct button.

SLlr/E2.2

02

For how long has the woman interviewed worked for

the company? Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.
A
B
C
D

Six years
Twenty one years
Twelve years
Eighteen years

Answer:

Page 12

PART A LISTENING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

SLlr/E3.1

03

Which is the correct message to leave on a notepad

for Abdul? Write A, B, C or D in the box.
A

Choice Holidays called They are offering 30% off the cost
of buying Travellers Cheques and your tickets are ready for
collecting.

Choice Holidays called Your tickets are ready for collecting

and they are offering 50% off the cost of Travellers Cheques.

Choice Holidays called Your tickets are ready for collecting,

but you will need to show your passport before you can pick
them up.

Choice Holidays called Your tickets will be ready in 30 days

and they are offering 50% off the cost of Travellers Cheques.

Answer:

Page 13

PART A LISTENING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

SLlr/E3.2

04

Listen to the recording and follow the map. In which square

is the house where the party is being held?

Station

Answer:

Page 14

PART A LISTENING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

SLlr/L1.2

05

Were Emmas disasters caused by her children?

Cant tell

Tick one box:

Yes
No
Cant tell

SLlr/L1.2

06

From what you have heard, which of the following is correct?

Circle A, B, C or D.
A

Janet left school at 14 and worked in a factory.

Janet went straight to college when she left school.

Janet started work after her father died in 1990.

Janet was able to start her own business in 1998.

Page 15

PART A LISTENING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

SLlr/L2.2

07

Write numbers below the words to show the sequence in

which they appeared in the description of the accident.

red Fiesta rain firefighters central reservation

white van spin

1. rain
2. white van
3. red Fiesta
4. central
reservation
5. spin
6. firefighters
All correct for
1 mark.

SLlr/L2.2

08

From what you have heard, which of the following is correct?

Circle A, B, C or D.
A

Shirley needs Janets advice on her wedding.

Janet prefers an October wedding if possible.

Shirley prefers a wedding in August if possible.

The caterers can manage a wedding in August.

End of PART A (listening skills).

Page 16

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/E2.1

09

Read the information below and then select the correct order
of the instructions: A, B, C or D.
Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

USING YOUR PRINTER

To fit the new ink cartridge to a Combo Printer, lift the lid
on the printer, remove the empty cartridge, put in the
new cartridge, close the lid and then press the ink button
on the printer.

B
remove the empty cartridge
press the ink button on the
printer
lift the lid
put in the new cartridge

D
press the ink button on the
printer
lift the lid
remove the empty cartridge
put in the new cartridge

Answer:

Page 17

lift the lid

press the ink button on the
printer
close the lid
remove the empty cartridge
lift the lid
remove the empty cartridge
put in the new cartridge
close the lid
press the ink button on the
printer

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/E2.2

10

Draw lines to match the documents below with their

correct use.

SALE

To make
Apple Pie

35

255g (9oz) Shortcrust Pastry

75-100g (3-4oz) Soft Brown Sugar

Mix the brown sugar, cinnamon and flour together into a bowl.

All correct
for 1 mark.

004 28 5748

SSBE

680g (1lb) Bramley Apples

Two hundred and

seventy three pounds

recipe to
instructions,
advertising to
advert,
note pad to
message,
cheque to
money.

273

Place a layer of apple slices in the base of a 900ml (1 pint) pie dish .

25g (1oz) Butter, diced

1 tbsp Plain Flour

Sprinkle with some of the sugar, cinnamon and flour.

Dot the butter over the apples.
Roll out the pastry until just larger than the pie dish.

1-2 tsp Caster Sugar

3267545734285748

3734285748

Cover the dish with the pastry, using any trimming to decorate the top.

1 tsp Cinnamon

Money

Message

Advertising

Instructions

Page 18

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/E2.3

11

Which telephone number would you ring if you needed your

carpet cleaning at home?

ACE
CLEANING
COMPANY
Experts in home and
office equipment
cleaning, including
computers.

01675 996743

EASY CLEAN
We supply:
floor polish
cleaning cloths
clothing
toilet paper
CALL: 01676 873421

Answer:

Page 19

CLEAN
CRAFT

We clean:
carpets, wood,
and tiled floors.
Specialists in
stain removal
01879 3452788

Vanity Clean
We clean your cars
inside and out at your
own home.
Monthly or weekly rates
01765 777888

01879
3452788

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/E2.1

12

Read the childminders work sheet entry.

What is the correct order in which the childminder should

do things? Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

CHILDMINDERS WORK SHEET

When you arrive, prepare and sort out the breakfasts,
dress the two older children for school, prepare their
packed lunches and finally make sure you get them
down to the school transport on time.

A
B
C
D

dressing, breakfasts, lunches, transport

breakfasts, lunches, dressing, transport
breakfasts, dressing, lunches, transport
lunches, breakfasts, dressing, transport
Answer:

Ww/E2.1

13

What is the correct spelling of the word that should go in the

blank space in the sentence below? Write A, B, C or D in the
answer box.

Citizenship is about ________ being involved in their community.

A
B
C
D

people
poeple
peeple
peopel

Answer:

Page 20

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Ws/E2.1

14

What is the correct word that should go in the blank space in

the sentence below? Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

To charge the drill, put the battery in the charger

______ switch on at the mains.

A
B
C
D

but
so
and
after

Answer:

Ww/E2.1

15

What is the correct spelling of the word that should go in the

blank space in the sentence below? Write A, B, C or D in the
answer box.

The best month in the garden is June as it is ________ warm

and dry.
A
B
C
D

allways
always
alway
allway

Answer:

Ws/E2.4

16

Underline the word in the sentence below that should begin

with a capital letter.
I will see you at 2 oclock next monday.

Page 21

Monday

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/E3.2

17

Read the sentences below. One is trying to persuade and

one is trying to explain.

Which sentence is trying to persuade? Write A or B in the

answer box.
A

Why not come to the party on Tuesday? Its bound to be fun!

The party on Tuesday is to celebrate Avtars birthday.

Answer:

Rt/E3.8

18

Read the appointment card and underline the date and

the time when Mrs Omars son can see the dentist.

Both correct
for 1 mark.

HILL HOUSE
DENTAL SURGERY

Reference: Cancelled Appointment for: Yasir Omar

12/12/05
and 2.30

9/11/05

Dear Mrs Omar

The appointment for Yasir to see the dentist on
23/11/05 at 11:30 has had to be changed. The dentist can
now see Yasir on 12/12/05 at 2:30. We apologise for any
inconvenience this may have caused you. Please let the
surgery know by 10.30 on 11/12/05 if you cannot make
the appointment.

Page 22

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rw/E3.2

19

On which line on this application form (1 7) would you

include information about your last job?

Answer:

IBL

Application

Form

1. Name:
2. Gender:
n:
3. Occupatio
r:
4. NI Numbe
5. Referee:
No:
6. Reference
mployment:
7. Previous e

Rw/E3.4

20

Write the headings on the cards in correct alphabetical order.

The first one has been done.
5.
Computer
Banking
Electricity
Holidays
Car

Page 23

4.
3.
2.
1. Banking

1. banking
2. car
3. computer
4. electricity
5. holidays
All correct
for
1 mark.

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Ww/E3.1

21

Underline the word that is incorrectly spelt in the letter below.

Writting

Ws/E3.2

22

Complete the sentence in the box by writing the verb in the

future tense.
Ali is in Manchester.

will be
or
is going
to be

Ali .......................................... in Manchester.

Wt/E3.4

23

The note below needs proofreading and correcting. Underline

the word that is wrongly used.

is

Page 24

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Ws/E3.3

24

The sentence below contains one punctuation error.

Add the missing full stop in the correct place.

full stop
between
colour
and I.

The paint you got on Friday was the wrong

colour I wanted blue.

Rt/L1.3

25

Will the development in Beach Road, Brighton begin in two

months time? Tick ONE box:

COUNCIL
PLANNING OFFICE

Subject to final planning approval and there being no

objections from the general public, the development in Beach
Road should commence in two months time. A spokesperson
from Developers Ltd. reported that the company is confident

that the project will be approved and work will begin as

scheduled.
Yes
No
Cant tell

Page 25

Cant tell

How are you doing?

Happy to go on?
If not, tell the person in charge.

Page 26

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/L1.3

26

Read this extract from a factory report.

From the report, which of these statements is correct?
Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

SAFETY
Officer reported
At the union meeting, the firms Safety
g. Floors are
that some safety standards are slippin
cked. She said
often untidy and two doorways are blo
ent deals with
that it is important that the Managem
these matters urgently.
A
B
C
D

Page 27

Safety is the unions responsibility.

Answer:
All safety standards are falling.

Floors in the factory are slippery.

Certain safety standards are falling.

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/L1.5

27

Read the information from a driving licence application form.

9.a

Signing your photograph

To obtain a driving licence, you must supply a
photograph and proof of identity. The photograph
must be signed unless you are providing a UK
passport for identification purposes.
Warning: The person who signs your photograph
must have known you personally for at least two years,
and must not be a relative or a member of the Post
Office staff processing the application.

Which of the following is acceptable as proof of identity in

order to obtain a driving licence?
Circle A, B, C or D.

A
B
C
D

A current United Kingdom Passport.

A photograph signed by a family member.
An application signed by Post Office staff.
A photograph signed by the applicant.

Page 28

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/L1.3

28

Read this advertisement.

Wessex Outdoor Community Centre

Applicants must have some experience of caring for young

people either in a family or work situation. Qualifications in
dealing with people with mobility problems are desirable,
but not essential, as training will be given. Flexibility in
working hours is required to fit in with the regular weekend
and evening work rotas.
The work is physically demanding and some awareness of
the lifting regulations within the Health and Safety Guidelines
is desirable. Applicants will need to be fit and prepared to
undertake some training. This is an unusual opportunity to
gain experience in this kind of work.

According to the advertisement, an essential quality needed
for the job is
A
B
C
D

qualifications
ambition
awareness
flexibility

Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

Page 29

Answer:

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Wt/L1.6

29

Proofread this notice. Underline the word that is wrongly spelt.

suprised

MEMO
For: All staff
From: First Aid Officer

Date: 15/04/05
Reference: Supplies

FIRST AID

When treating a minor injury last week, I was

suprised to find an empty bottle of antiseptic in
the Staff Room First Aid Kit. It is important that we
are properly prepared to give emergency medical
treatment at all times. In future, can staff let me
know when any supplies are running low.
Thank you.

Page 30

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Wt/L1.3

30

Read the information about Liza Ono, who is preparing her CV.
LIZA ONO Personal Profile

Liza is 27 years old, lives with her family and is currently
out of work. At school she passed 6 GCSEs and, in Year 10,
did work experience in a fast-food restaurant. Liza likes
clubbing, popular music and cooking. From school, she went
to college and took an NVQ in Catering. Her last job was in
a small hotel. Since leaving college, Liza has also worked in
two restaurants.
Liza needs to write her CV in the correct order, beginning
with her most recent history.
Which sequence should she use?

A unemployed; hotel work; restaurant work; NVQ Catering
B NVQ Catering; restaurant work; hotel work; unemployed
C unemployed; restaurant work; hotel work; NVQ Catering
D restaurant work; unemployed; hotel work; NVQ Catering

Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

Page 31

Answer:

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Ws/L1.2

31

This is part of a statement about a traffic accident.

Underline the verb that is grammatically incorrect.

was
in the
first line.

Ww/L1.1

32

How should the missing word in the sentence below be spelt?

Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

I ______ a bank statement every two months.

A
B
C
D

receive
recieve
receave
receeve

Answer:

Page 32

How are you doing?

Happy to go on?
If not, tell the person in charge.

Page 33

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rw/L2.1

33

Read the information taken from a shower guarantee leaflet.

What do the underlined words mean?
Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

To register for your FREE shower guarantee,

call 0800 076 1234 (freephone) and quote
the reference number: MSGH56D
Please note, non-registration does not
invalidate your statutory rights.

A
B
C
D

If you dont register your guarantee will be worthless.

Even if you dont register you will still be covered in law.
You must register in order to be covered by the law.
You need a valid reference number for the guarantee to
be legal.
Answer:

Page 34

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/L2.2

34
34

Read the information below.

The Supermarket supervisor spoke to her team at their

regular Monday meeting. She said, Congratulations to you
all. Sales must have been really brilliant over my weekend
break. Judging by the empty shelves, the litter decorating
the floors and the dirty footprints through nearly all the
aisles, you must have all been extremely busy. I would like
to thank Mikhail especially. He must have been so busy
helping customers get their shopping to their cars that
he had no time to collect up all the trolleys that are now
scattered around the car park.

Which of the following statements describes how the

supervisor is feeling about her staff?
The supervisor is:
A
B
C
D

displeased with sales

praising her staff
being ironic
happy with staff efforts

Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

Page 35

Answer:

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/L2.4

In each case below, decide whether the person is stating a

fact or giving an opinion. Tick the appropriate box.
FACT OPINION

The shops manager said that she felt the new Sonic
CF8 was the best camera available in that price range.

Opinion
Fact
Opinion
Opinion
All correct
for 1 mark.

The shop assistant confirmed that he was able to

offer a discount of 25% on all colour printers in stock.
The manager said she thought that all the facts pointed
to a decline in interest in digital cameras.

F 8

The assistant felt that the zoom lens on the Sonic CF8
camera was its best feature.

4.1

ZO

MEGA
PIXEL

M L E NS
O

3X

S O N I C

35

Page 36

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Rt/L2.6

Read the note below and then complete the order form.

14-12-05,
Jeans,
G28GR,
1, Medium,
19.99.
All correct
for 1 mark.

Price

Description

Code

T-shirts
navy
green
yellow

T-shirts
G27NA
G27GR
G27YE

Jeans
blue
green
black

J
G28BU
G28GR
G28BL

Size
/large
small/medium/large

/large
10.99

small/medium/large

19.99

Date:

Order Form
Description of goods

Page 37

Code

Quantity

Size

-12-2005
Price per item

PAGE 125

36

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Wt/L2.7

37

A word in this document is incorrectly spelt.

competent

Write the word correctly in the box provided.

Answer:

Ws/L2.4

38

Punctuate this sentence correctly.

weeks

It is important that all volunteers attend this weeks meeting.

Page 38

PART B READING AND WRITING

Answers
1 mark available
for each question.

Ws/L2.2

39

Read the following.

Parents Committee

Minutes of Parents Committee Meeting

1.

23 July 2005

The new Art Block

The Headteacher reported that the architect working for the

developers and contractors involved _____ becoming increasingly
worried that the new Art Block will not be ready for the new term.

The missing word is:

A
B
C
D

are
were
is
will

Answer:

Write A, B, C or D in the answer box.

Ww/L2.1

40

Proofread the following. There is one error. Write the

incorrectly spelt word correctly in the box.

I bought a new refridgerator at your shop

two weeks ago and it has not yet been
delivered. Unless I receive it next week
I shall cancel the order and insist on full
compensation. Delivery any time after
3.00pm is convenient.

Answer:

Page 39

refrigerator

Revised trial version 2006-2007

This item was produced as part of a suite of tools to assess learners for Skills for Life programmes.
The tools were developed as part of a project which ran from 2003-2006. The project was jointly led
by AlphaPlus Consultancy Ltd and BTL Group Ltd on behalf of the Skills for Life Strategy Unit (DfES).
These tools are part of an ongoing development process.
Feedback on the tools is therefore being encouraged and can be sent by email to:
assessment.feedback@qia.gsi.gov.uk
AlphaPlus Consultancy Ltd and BTL Group Ltd would like to thank all those who took part in the trials
and contributed to the tools.
Support is available at:
Website: www.toolslibrary.co.uk
Technical Support: 01274 203 270
General Support: 01274 203 276
E-mail: toolslibrary@btl.com
Copies of this publication can be obtained from:
DfES Publications
PO Box 5050
Sherwood Park
Annesley
Nottingham
NG15 0DJ
Tel: 0845 6022260
Fax: 0845 6033360
Textphone: 0845 6055560

Version 1

E-mail: dfes@prolog.uk.com
Please quote ref: IALIT

Literacy

Extracts from this tool and supporting documents may be reproduced for non-commercial research,
education or training purposes, provided they are used accurately and not in a misleading context,
and on the condition that the source is acknowledged. For any other use please contact
HMSOlicensing@cabinet-office.x.gsi.gov.uk

Initial Assessment
Assessor Guide and Learner Answer Booklet

Crown Copyright 2006

Published by the Department for Education and Skills