_______ and at twelve, the age limit prescribed for Darvel school _______.
This in the context means that children were

The correct answer is Option C (Allowed to remain in the school only upto the age of twelve).

Key Points:
• Core Language Concept Tested: The question tests the candidate's ability to interpret complex sentence structures and deduce the operational meaning of phrases like "age limit prescribed" in the context of institutional rules mentioned in a passage.
• Why the Correct Option is Right: The official answer key marks option 3 as correct. The passage states: "...and at twelve, the age limit prescribed for Darvel school, he was sent to Kilmarnock Academy." The context clearly indicates that Alexander had to *leave* Darvel school and move to another academy because he hit the "age limit" of twelve. This logically means that twelve was the maximum age allowed for students at Darvel school; they could only remain there *up to* that age.
• Common Exam Traps and Pitfalls: A common mistake candidates make is confusing a 'maximum age limit' (for leaving) with a 'minimum age limit' (for admission). Options 1, 2, and 4 all incorrectly assume that twelve was the starting age, completely contradicting the narrative flow of the passage where he leaves the school at that age.
• Elimination of Incorrect Options: Since the passage explicitly notes his transfer to a new academy at age twelve due to this limit, any option suggesting admission at twelve is factually wrong. Thus, by strict contextual deduction, only option 3 aligns with the narrative timeline.
• Preparation Strategy: Always map the timeline of events in a biography-based reading comprehension to accurately interpret phrases like 'age limit'.
• Key Takeaway: Remember: Contextual clues are vital; if a student is transferred out at an 'age limit', it implies the limit is a maximum age for attendance, not an entry requirement.