Tom's Trouble
What does Tom get into trouble for in the beginning of the story?
Eating jam
What is Aunt Polly's main concern about Tom?
She worries he is a mischievous and unruly boy
What is the new boy's most striking feature?
His fancy clothing
What does "punctuate" mean in the context of the story?
To interrupt or emphasize
What is a major theme explored in the story?
The complexities of childhood, mischief, and responsibility
What does Tom do to avoid getting in trouble after playing hookey?
He gets his shirt damp by pumping on his head
How does Aunt Polly try to catch Tom in a lie?
She asks him questions designed to trick him
What does the new boy claim to have that makes him feel superior to Tom?
A bigger brother
What does "hookey" mean? in this chapter of the book
to play truant or skip school
What does the story teach us about the power of imagination?
It can create escape and conflict
What does Tom do to get into trouble with the new boy?
He dares him to step over a line)
How does Aunt Polly's perspective on Tom's behavior change throughout the story?
She starts out angry, then is amused, then worries about her responsibility to him
How does the new boy react to being beaten by Tom?
He cries and threatens revenge
What does "ambuscade" mean?
A surprise attack
What is the importance of the contrast between Tom and Sid in the story?
It highlights the difference between adventurous and quiet personalities
What is Tom's punishment for playing hookey?
Working on Saturday
What does Aunt Polly say about "old fools"?
She says they are the biggest fools
What does the new boy do to Tom after the fight is over?
He throws a stone at Tom
What does "adamantine" mean in the context of the story?
Unchangeable, extremely firm
What does the story say about the relationship between discipline and love?
It shows that discipline can be a form of love, even if it is not always easy
How does Tom get away with playing hookey and going swimming?
He lies to his aunt and hides evidence
What is Aunt Polly's saying for raising children?
Spare the rod and spile the child
Why does the new boy's mother tell Tom to go away?
Because she thinks Tom is a bad, vicious, and vulgar child
What does "snuffling" mean?
To sniffle with a wet nose, often while crying
What is the overarching message of the story?
Boys will be boys, but they still need guidance and understanding