This study focuses on possible factors which contributed to the low mathematics scores achieved by Florida's 11th graders on the 1977 Functional Literacy Test. The authors developed preliminary hypotheses to explain the low scores based upon professional conjecture, analyses of test items, and examination of item data from the October 1977 test administration. Results from this pilot study on a small sample of north Florida high school students provided tentative findings which are highly relevant to the analysis of student difficulties in solving math application problems. Also included in the report are considerations for test construction, recommendations for curriculum improvement, and ideas for remedial math programs. (Author/CM)