Tom's Midnight Garden - Chapters 18 and 19 - Reading Comprehension

In the reading comprehension exercise based on Chapters 18 and 19 of "Tom's Midnight Garden," students are tasked with analyzing the text to understand character development and plot progression. The questions guide the students to observe the subtle changes in Hatty, as Tom first notices her appearing older when he sees her in her bedroom. Evidence of this aging is sought to be identified. Additionally, the exercise prompts students to consider how Tom draws parallels between Hatty's bedroom and his own, indicating a deeper connection between the characters and their environments.

Emotions play a significant role in these chapters, with questions exploring why Tom feels sadness and what causes his anxiety when he fears being unable to return to his aunt and uncle's home. The comprehension questions delve into the details of Hatty's secret hiding place in the cupboard and what she keeps there. They also prompt reflection on why Tom contemplates adoption and why he believes the clock holds the key to understanding the mysteries unfolding around him. Another query asks students to consider why Tom requests his aunt to visit the river, adding layers to the narrative's complexity. The ticking clock's irritation to Tom is another point of discussion, linking to the themes of time and perception that are central to the story. Finally, students are challenged to condense the essence of these chapters into a concise 50-word summary, demonstrating their understanding and ability to synthesize information.