Available Answers

1. 1.

   What did the boys generally do after their share of the gruel was eaten?

2. 2.

   What did one particular boy threaten to do?

3. 3.

   "... it fell to Oliver Twist". What is 'it'? How did Oliver come to be selected for this task?

4. 4.

   Explain the following phrases in your own words.

   1. lots were cast: _________________________________________________
   2. short commons: ________________________________________________
   3. alarmed at his own temerity: ______________________________________
5. 5.

   Where do you think Oliver Twist lived? Give reasons for your answer.

6. 6.

   Choose the meaning for each of the following words as it appears in the passage.

   a. composition:

   1.   combination of parts
   2.   a mixture of various ingredients
   3.   a work of music or art

   b. quarter:

   1.   one fourth of the dollar
   2.   each of four equal parts into which something can divide
   3.   four months of a year

   c. polished:

   1.   made the surface of something smooth and shiny by scraping it clean
   2.   refined
   3.   finished

   d. commons:

   1. British lower house of parliament
   2. people not belonging to upper class
   3. food provided for everyone