VOCABULARY — Choose the best synonym (same meaning) of the highlighted word, based on the sentence. Sentence: “Few teachers have been spared the problem of an OBSTREPEROUS pupil in the class.”

Introduction / Context:
“Obstreperous” is used for people, especially children or pupils, who are noisy, boisterous, and difficult to control. Classroom management contexts often use “unruly” for such behavior.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The sentence concerns classroom discipline.
• The target word modifies “pupil.”
• We require a synonym that captures both resistance to control and noisy behavior.

Concept / Approach:
“Unruly” directly conveys not readily ruled or controlled, a very close match. “Sullen” means morose or sulky, which is quiet but resentful. “Lazy” concerns effort, not behavior control. “Awkward” relates to clumsiness or social discomfort.

Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Map “obstreperous” to traits: noisy, defiant, hard to control.2) Select “unruly” as the best semantic fit.3) Reject near-misses that address mood or skill rather than discipline.

Verification / Alternative check:
Thesauri list “unruly,” “boisterous,” and “rowdy” as frequent companions for “obstreperous.”

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
A) “sullen” — quiet resentment, not noisy defiance.C) “lazy” — effort level, not control.D) “awkward” — clumsy, not rebellious.

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing emotional tone (sullen) with conduct (unruly). The sentence is about classroom management.

Final Answer:
unruly