The freedom we take for granted in the us is freedom of religion .In the us we do not have to much freedom.The freedom that causes to much problems is freedom of speech.
The author is applying imagery by using SHrill, ruSHing, Steam whiStle, it is referring to the sound and image of a train, and the Steam whiStle is to imply that of the steam rising from the train. now the r in RuSHing is to signify the speed or power of the locomotive.
I think they would react by being sad momentarily but looking at this as a positive, knowing they need to study harder for the next exam, as well as going back over the exam taken to figure out what they got wrong and work to understand those concepts
What should I do in such a case. Hope that helps