Question

the rituals of the lottery...
a have become more casual over time.
b are the same as they have been for generations.
c have become stricter and more serious over time.
d have been entirely forgotten by the town.

Explanation:

The text states that original lottery rituals (like a chant, formal salute) have been forgotten or discarded, and the black box is shabby with no replacement made. It also notes that slips of paper replaced wooden chips as the town grew, showing the ritual has become less formal over time. Option B is wrong because rituals have changed. Option C is incorrect as rituals are less strict, not more. Option D is wrong because the lottery still happens, so rituals aren't entirely forgotten.

Answer:

A. have become more casual over time.