SSAT Middle Level Reading Practice Test 15

I've come this far to freedom and I won't turn back

I'm climbing to the highway from my old dirt track

I'm coming and I'm going

And I'm stretching and I'm growing

And I'll reap what I've been sowing or my skin's not black

I've prayed and slaved and waited and I've sung my song

You've bled me and you've starved me but I've still grown strong

You've lashed me and you've treed me

And you've everything but freed me

But in time you'll know you need me and it won't be long.

I've seen the daylight breaking high above the bough

I've found my destination and I've made my vow;

so whether you abhor me

Or deride me or ignore me

Mighty mountains loom before me and I won't stop now.

-Naomi Long Madgett

1. Which of the following words best characterizes the poet?

• A. furious
• B. mournful
• C. victorious
• D. determined
• E. obedient

2. In the poem, the narrator's life can best be described as a(n)

• A. brisk journey
• B. cautionary tale
• C. educational experience
• D. hazardous highway
• E. uphill climb

3. All of the following are used by the poet to overcome slavery EXCEPT

• A. strength in numbers
• B. belief in God
• C. patience
• D. keeping a merry heart
• E. surviving physical hardship

4. The poet believes she will reach her goal because

• A. there are many more slaves than slave owners.
• B. the Civil War is finally coming to an end.
• C. her oppressors will need her one day.
• D. she will find safety behind mighty mountains.
• E. the government will pass laws abolishing slavery.

5. The pattern of rhyme in this poem is most similar to

• A. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
• B. apple, apple, banana, banana, apple
• C. black, white, black, white, black
• D. day, day, day, night, night
• E. girl, boy, boy, girl, girl