Abstract
To determine which survival words to teach persons who are moderately and severely mentally retarded, it is necessary to determine which words they are most likely to encounter in their environment. Therefore, the authors examined the product warning labels of potentially hazardous substances in the non-food stock of a large grocery store to determine which warning words appeared most frequently. The results indicated that some of the warning words commonly taught seldom appear on product warning labels and that many words seldom taught appear frequently. Additionally, the reading level of more than one-half of the key words on product warning labels ranges from 4th grade to 10th grade. Students capable of achieving an adequate reading level should be taught the words which appear most frequently on product warning labels. Less capable students must be taught identification and proper use of hazardous substances as well as appropriate treatments for accidental contact with or inhalation of hazardous substances.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.