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 many children are there in the class and how are they arranged?

What does Ms. Williams do with the marks from the tests?

What happens to the students based on their test scores?

How does the class know who will pass or fail the 11-plus exam?

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