Which of the following is an example of a global indicator used to assess development?

• A. Literacy rate.
• B. Temperature.
• C. Wind speed.
• D. Altitude.

Answer: (A)

Global indicators measure how people live and develop across countries. Literacy rate fits this well because it directly reflects education access and skills, which are fundamental to development. A higher literacy rate suggests better educational opportunities, increased employability, and greater capacity for health, civic participation, and economic growth. These are the kinds of cross-country, time-trend measures used to compare development levels globally, making literacy rate a standard indicator.

The other options describe physical characteristics of a place rather than human development outcomes. Temperature, wind speed, and altitude tell us about the environment, not how societies are progressing in education, health, or income.