Question

(3) a small bell was tapped, and each of the pupils drew a chair from under the table. supposing this act meant they were to be seated, i pulled out mine and at once slipped into it from one side. but when i turned my head, i saw that i was the only one seated, and all the rest at our table remained standing. just as i began to rise, looking shyly around to see how chairs were to be used, a second bell was sounded. all were seated at last, and i had to crawl back into my chair again. i heard a man’s voice at one end of the hall, and i looked around to see him. but all the others hung their heads over their plates. as i glanced at the long chain of tables, i caught the eyes of a paleface woman upon me. immediately i dropped my eyes, wondering why i was so keenly watched by the strange woman. the man ceased his mutterings, and then a third bell was tapped. everyone picked up his knife and fork and began eating. i began crying instead, for by this time i was afraid to venture anything more. what can the reader infer based on paragraph 3? ∘ only adults are allowed to speak. ∘ students must follow a strict schedule. ∘ students are not allowed to cry at mealtime. ∘ there are not enough chairs for every student.

Explanation:

In paragraph 3, the bell signals when to be seated and when to rise (for meals), showing a strict schedule (seating/rising timed by bells). Other options: "Only adults..." has no support (text about students/chairs), "Not allowed to cry" – the narrator was afraid to cry but no rule stated, "Not enough chairs" – narrator pulled a chair, others stood but no info on total chairs vs students. So the best inference is students follow a strict schedule (bell - timed actions).

Answer:

Students must follow a strict schedule.