Read the following passage. Then answer the questions that follow.

THE OLYMPIC SWIMMER
Who will be the winner bold?
Athletes from both far and near
Train and Strain to be the best.
But who will win the medal gold?

Swimmers swivel, splash, and kick
Back and forth in a clear, blue pool;
Like fish at play in Neptune’s sea.
Swimming relaxed, and calm, and free.
These stars like sharks cut the waves –

Their fin-like feet flap behind
Traverse the lane in record time.
Their performances are so sublime!
Arms reach out for more and more;
Mouths gulp air for burning lungs.

Hard, sure kicks surging to the fore
Like surfboards riding waves to shore.
Strong of body, heart, and mind,
The victors celebrate their feats.
Happiness now lights up a face;

Hard work wins the Olympic race.

(Use the passage to answer the question)

5. After reading “The Olympic Swimmer,” the reader can conclude that the speaker is MOST LIKELY
A. A competitive swimmer.
B. A participant in the Olympics.
C. A coach at the swim meet.
D. A dedicated sports enthusiast.***

(Use the passage to answer the question)

6. Which of the following universal truths is best supported by ideas in “The Olympic Swimmer”?
A. Practice makes perfect.
B. Winning comes at a price.
C. The early bird catches the worm.***
D. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.

(Use the passage to answer the question)

7. Read the following line from “The Olympic Swimmer.”

“Like fish at play in Neptune’s sea.”

The reference to Neptune in this line is most likely intended as a(n) ___________ allusion.
A. Biblical.
B. Literary.
C. Historical.
D. Mythological.***