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  Illiterate

  • Cannot read or write
  • Hears words but doesn't “see” them
  • Words are pieces of sound and picture, not objects
  • Words have no exact meaning
  • Is an oral communicator
  • The story is the dominant communication style
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  Functionally Illiterate

  • Dropped out of school by grade 8, stopped most reading and writing
  • May read simple materials but does not receive, remember, or share concepts through print
  • Does not transmit values through print media
  • Is considered to be literate by every country
  • Is an oral communicator
  • The story is the dominant communication style
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  Semi-Literate

  • Is usually a high school graduate
  • Functions in a gray transitional zone between orality and literacy
  • Usually uses marginal skills in one context, i.e. work
  • Is considered to be literate by every country
  • Prefers oral communication
  • Learns best and most easily via oral communication