The image presents a historical account of child labor during the Industrial Revolution, focusing on the tragic story of Mary Richards, a young girl who died in a factory accident. Let's go through each question and explain the solution step by step.
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1. Which adjective best describes the factory in which the girl works?
Answer: b. Hazardous
Explanation:
The passage describes a horrific accident where Mary Richards was caught in a machine, leading to her death. The machinery is described as having a horizontal shaft near the floor that could easily catch loose clothing (like an apron), and the result was fatal. This clearly indicates that the working environment was extremely dangerous. Words like "irresistible force," "bones snap," "crushed," "blood scattered," and "every bone broken" emphasize the deadly risks present in the factory. Therefore, "hazardous" is the most accurate description.
- *Safe* – Incorrect; the accident proves it was unsafe.
- *Bright* – Not mentioned or relevant; lighting isn't discussed.
- *Fun* – Clearly not applicable; the tone is tragic.
✔ So,
b. Hazardous is correct.
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2. At what factory machine did the girl work?
Answer: Worked at a drawing frame.
Explanation:
This is directly stated in the first sentence of the passage:
> "A girl named Mary Richards... worked at a drawing frame."
The drawing frame was a piece of textile machinery used in cotton mills to stretch and twist yarn. It often had moving parts close to the ground, making it particularly dangerous for children whose clothing could get caught.
✔ Therefore, the correct answer is
Worked at a drawing frame.
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3. Which group would most likely use this story for their cause?
Answer: b. Anti-child labor groups
Explanation:
This story highlights the extreme dangers and tragedies faced by children working in factories during the Industrial Revolution. It serves as a powerful emotional appeal against the exploitation of child labor.
Let’s examine the options:
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a. Factory owners – They would not want to publicize such accidents, as it could damage their reputation and lead to regulations.
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b. Anti-child labor groups –
✔ These groups aim to end child labor and would use such stories to raise awareness and push for reform.
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c. Abolitionists – They focused on ending slavery, not specifically child labor (though there may be overlap, this story is not about slavery).
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d. Activists for a higher minimum wage – While they advocate for workers’ rights, the issue here is child safety and labor, not wages.
Thus, the most fitting audience for this story is
anti-child labor groups, who would use it to support legislation and public opinion against employing children in dangerous conditions.
✔ So,
b. Anti-child labor groups is correct.
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✔ Final Answers:
1.
b. Hazardous
2.
Worked at a drawing frame.
3.
b. Anti-child labor groups
These answers are supported by direct evidence from the text and logical reasoning based on historical context.
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of child labor worksheet.
