How was the boy's approach towards the old woman different from that of the other boys in the group?
While the other boys in the group 'hastened' past the old woman, 'Nor offered a helping hand to her', and were busy enjoying their freedom after school, the boy paused beside her and 'whispered low' to offer help.
The other boys were indifferent and focused on their own enjoyment, but the boy noticed the woman's need, stopped to help her, and treated her with respect and kindness by speaking gently to her.
Explanation
The poem contrasts the behaviour of the group of boys with the single boy who stops to help. While the group is described as 'Glad in the freedom of school let out' and 'Hailing the snow piled white and deep,' the helpful boy pauses and shows concern for the elderly woman.
Solution Steps
Other boys 'hastened' past the old woman without offering help
Other boys were focused on enjoying their freedom after school
The boy paused beside the woman and 'whispered low' to offer help
Other boys showed indifference while the boy showed concern
The boy noticed the woman's need and treated her with respect and kindness