Read the text and mark the statements after it as true(T), false(F) or not stated(NS).



What is literacy? Why is it so important for future careers? Literacy is more than the ability to read, write and do arithmetic. It comprises other skills needed by an individual to function effectively in a given society. It can range from reading instructions or medical prescriptions, knowing which bus to catch, keeping accounts for a small business or operating a computer.
But some people have no desire to read and write because they do not see the direct benefits. They are sure literacy cannot change their lives. One of the farmers in Africa says, «My life is to prepare land for crops to be planted. I don’t need to read. What shall I read? The Bible? They tell us about that at Mass. The news? I listen to the radio. The newspapers are very expensive for me.»
So why force literacy on people? Because by failing to provide literacy we deprive people of being fully human and independent. Literacy is important because it’s the key to a better livelihood, healthier families, and participation in democratic life. It is extremely important for women in particular. A study in Bangladesh, for example, showed that women with secondary education were three times more likely to attend a political meeting than women with no education.
At the beginning of the 21st century more than 113 million children did not attend schools. They can be mostly found in East and South Asia. Up to two thirds of all illiterate adults are women. In developed nations functional illiteracy is also widespread.
Motivation to learn is essential. For many people religion provides it as it is important to be able to read the Bible or key Koran. For others different motives are important. It can be the desire to write a personal letter, to earn money, help with their children’s education.
1) By literacy is understood the ability to read.
2) Literacy can help people to function more effectively in the society.
3) About 37 per cent of people in the Arab region cannot see the benefits that come from literacy.
4) Illiterate children mostly live in Africa.
5) Women predominate among illiterate grown-ups.
6) Women have more varied motives to become literate.