Question

Read the extract and answer the questions that follow:

‘Marian, the headmistress sat in her office. Freda, an Assistant teacher, pretended to consult her.’

1. Who were the students for Marian and Freda?
2. What insights does the reader gain from the situation?
3. What was Anne’s reaction?

Answer 1

1. The dolls were the students.
2. The scene shows that Freda has accepted Marian and is willing to join her game, while Marian can enjoy companionship when she is treated with patience and understanding.
3. Anne sees Freda playing with Marian and realises that her earlier assumption that Freda would not want to play with her was wrong. She is pleased, and finishes her letter cheerfully.