Read with understanding. Explain with evidence. Write with confidence.

Fiction · Practice extract

The Storm Path

Asha had expected the cliff path to be easy. From the village, it had looked like a pale ribbon winding above the sea, but the overnight rain had changed it completely. Water trickled from the rock face and gathered in shallow pools. As she climbed, the track became treacherous: loose stones shifted beneath her boots and several sections had crumbled towards the edge. She slowed down and tested each step before putting her full weight on it. When the path narrowed, she kept one hand against the cold rock and avoided looking at the waves far below. Her brother, Ravi, had already disappeared around the next bend, but his footprints were still visible in the mud. A sudden gust scattered droplets from the grass and made Asha crouch until it passed. Ahead, the path vanished into a bank of mist. For a moment, Asha considered turning back, but then Ravi's red jacket appeared faintly through the grey. He waved and pointed towards a stone shelter only a short distance away. Reassured, Asha tightened the straps of her rucksack and continued, placing each foot with deliberate care.