Frederick Douglass: Learning to Read and Write

Frederick Douglass, even as a child, showed remarkable ingenuity in learning to read and write. Initially taught by his mistress in Baltimore, his formal education was cut short by her husband. Douglass then devised creative ways to continue his education, such as playing educational games with peers and exchanging lessons for food. He also utilized discarded schoolbooks and other materials to teach himself, demonstrating resourcefulness and determination despite societal and class barriers.

Who initially taught Frederick Douglass how to read and write?

• His friend

• His mistress, Miss Old

• His father

• His mother

What did Douglass do to continue learning after his formal education was stopped?

• He hired a private tutor

• He played writing games with other boys

• He read books in the library

• He attended night school

How did Douglass use his interactions with poor white children to his advantage?

• He played sports with them

• He taught them in exchange for money

• He exchanged lessons for food

• He ignored them

What unconventional method did Douglass use to practice writing?

• Using ashes from the fireplace

• Writing in the sand

• Carving into wood

• Using a typewriter

What did Douglass do with discarded school books?

• He sold them

• He gave them away

• He used them to practice writing

• He ignored them