Dive Into Different Reading Passages

On the SSAT Upper Level Reading section, you’ll encounter a variety of passage types. It’s important to know what to expect so you can approach each one with confidence!

Types of Passages

• Literary Fiction: These passages are stories, often with characters, dialogue, and a plot.
• Nonfiction: Includes essays, articles, biographies, or excerpts about real people, events, or ideas.
• Poetry: Sometimes, a poem will appear, challenging you to interpret language and rhythm.
• Argumentative/Opinion: These passages present an argument or a point of view, asking you to analyze reasoning.

Why Are They Important?

Recognizing the passage type helps you anticipate the kinds of questions you’ll get and the reading strategies you’ll need.

Real-World Connection

In everyday life, you read all kinds of texts—news, stories, even instructions! Each requires a different approach, just like SSAT passages.

Quick Tips

• Skim the passage first to get the main idea.
• Identify the tone and purpose.
• Highlight key details and structure as you read.