Select the correct alternative from the given options that correctly changes the form of narration in the given sentence. The Headmistress said, “What a performance!”
The original sentence is in direct speech. To change it to indirect speech, we must consider the type of sentence and the appropriate reporting verb. The original sentence is an exclamatory sentence expressing strong admiration. Therefore, a reporting verb like "exclaimed" is more suitable than "said" which is used for statements. "Said" implies a simple statement of fact, not an exclamation of praise.
Option 1 is incorrect because it directly copies the original exclamation without changing it into a subordinate clause. It does not show the sentiment.
Option 2 is the correct answer. "The Headmistress exclaimed that it was a great performance." This option accurately reflects the original exclamation as a statement of praise within a subordinate clause introduced by "that". The exclamatory nature of the original sentence is captured by the use of "exclaimed", changing "What a performance!" which is an exclamation to a statement, "it was a great performance".
Option 3 is incorrect because it uses "praised" implying a formal expression of approval and does not capture the spontaneity of the original exclamation. The structure also needs improvement.
Option 4 is incorrect. Although it uses "exclaimed", it again fails to convert the exclamatory sentence into a proper subordinate clause, keeping the original structure.
Therefore, Option 2, "The Headmistress exclaimed that it was a great performance," is the only one that correctly changes the direct speech into indirect speech while preserving the original meaning and tone.
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