The Bell | POEM

The transcript describes a classroom of 48 students organized by Ms. Williams into rows based on weekly test scores. The best-performing student sits at the top of the class, while the lowest sits at the bottom. Ms. Williams predicts who will pass the 11-plus exam, creating a clear division among students. The narrator expresses a desire to be 12th, as this position allows them to ring the bell, signaling the end of class. The system highlights the competitive nature of the classroom environment.

How are the students in the class arranged?

• In 6 rows of 8

• In 2 rows of 24

• In 4 rows of 12

• In 3 rows of 16

What determines the seating arrangement in the classroom?

• Height of the students

• Alphabetical order

• Weekly test scores

• Random selection

What does Ms. Williams predict about the students?

• Who will pass or fail the 11-plus exam

• Who will be the best artist

• Who will win the sports day

• Who will be the class president

What is the significance of being 12th in the class?

• You get extra homework

• You get to ring the bell

• You get to sit next to the teacher

• You get a special badge

What happens when the bell is rung?

• The students go home

• The students and teachers go to the playground

• The students start a new lesson

• The students have a break