What is the most comprehensive definition of literacy?

Advanced language proficiency skills
The ability to read and write in one's native language
The ability to read, write, and comprehend information well enough to participate effectively in society
Basic reading and writing skills

Show answer and explanation

Correct answer: C. The ability to read, write, and comprehend information well enough to participate effectively in society

A. Advanced proficiency exceeds the threshold definition of literacy.
B. Language-specific and still limited to mechanical skill.
C. Correct. Modern definitions of literacy are FUNCTIONAL: the capacity to read, write, comprehend, and apply information in order to function in society and achieve one's goals. Note this is general literacy — HEALTH literacy is the narrower, specific ability to obtain, process, and understand health information needed to make appropriate health decisions.
D. Too narrow — mechanical decoding alone is not functional literacy.

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