Read the four extracts below then answer the questions.

For questions 18 – 25, choose the option (A, B, C or D) which you think best answers the question.

IMPORTANT: Type the letter only of the correct answer. Do not add spaces before or after the letter.

Extract A

As time went on, the tree grew taller and taller, until it became the tallest tree in the forest. Now it was proud of its height and its position. But it still felt uneasy, and thought of the trees that had been cut down and taken away. It wondered where they had gone.

One day, in the autumn, some men came again and cut down the tall tree. It fell to the ground with a crash, and the little fir tree saw that it was being taken away. It was taken to a large house, where it was put into a big room. There it was adorned with golden apples, nuts, and sweets. The children who came into the room clapped their hands and danced around the tree, just as they had danced around the snowman. The tree was very happy.

Extract B

Ballarat, located in the Central Highlands of Victoria, is a city with a rich history and a strong community spirit. The population is around 105,000, with many residents commuting to Melbourne for work. The city boasts a mix of heritage buildings, modern infrastructure, and ample green spaces. The new greenway will not only connect key recreational areas but also provide a scenic route that highlights Ballarat’s natural beauty and historical landmarks.

The project involves constructing a 3.5-kilometre paved path with lighting, benches, and informational signage about local flora, fauna, and history. This initiative is part of a larger urban development plan to enhance the liveability and attractiveness of Ballarat. Community members and local organisations have shown strong support for the project, participating in fundraising and volunteering efforts.

Extract C

Della finished her cry and attended to her cheeks with the powder rag. She stood by the window and looked out dully at a grey cat walking a grey fence in a grey backyard. Tomorrow would be Christmas Day, and she had only $1.87 with which to buy Jim a present. She had been saving every penny she could for months, with this result. Twenty dollars a week doesn’t go far. Expenses had been greater than she had calculated. They always are. Only $1.87 to buy a present for Jim. Her Jim. Many a happy hour she had spent planning for something nice for him. Something fine and rare and sterling—something just a little bit near to being worthy of the honour of being owned by Jim.

Extract D

The creature kills Clerval and Victor's bride, Elizabeth, on their wedding night. Grief-stricken and driven by vengeance, Victor pursues the creature across the globe. The chase leads to the Arctic, where Victor, exhausted and near death, encounters the explorer Robert Walton. Victor recounts his tragic story to Walton before succumbing to his ailments. Walton later discovers the creature mourning over Victor's body. The creature, expressing his deep remorse, vows to end his own life and disappears into the icy wilderness.

Which extract...

OC Practice Test 6 - Reading