What happened after the incident to Mr. Freeman's demeanor and actions?

• A. He continued to work steadily on his canvas.
• B. He praised Melinda for her effort.
• C. He ignored the incident and resumed class.
• D. He seemed depressed and stunned the class by slicing his own canvas.

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is how a dramatic moment can reveal a teacher’s emotional state and shift the classroom atmosphere. The description that fits best shows Mr. Freeman becoming depressed and then delivering a startling, self-directed action—slicing his own canvas—that momentarily shocks the class. This combination of mood and action communicates deep internal distress and immediately alters how students experience the scene, making the moment feel heavy and serious rather than routine. The other possibilities—continuing to work as if nothing happened, praising a student, or simply ignoring the incident—would not convey the same weight or disruption to the class mood, which is what this moment clearly demonstrates.