Question 1: Identify a point in the passage where the focus shifts from the description of the forest to Eleanor’s discovery. Provide the sentence or phrase and explain the shift.

Answer: The shift occurs when the narrative moves from describing the forest ('The forest stretched endlessly...') to Eleanor’s discovery ('Curious, Eleanor stepped forward...'). The focus shifts from setting to character action, marking a change in focus.

Question 2: What technique does the author use to create a sense of suspense when Eleanor finds the box?

Answer: The author uses a pause in the narrative ('The atmosphere thickened with a sense of mystery') and descriptive language to heighten suspense.

Question 3: Locate an example of a descriptive phrase that shifts the tone of the passage from peaceful to mysterious.

Answer: ‘The atmosphere thickened with a sense of mystery’ indicates a tonal shift from calm to suspenseful.

Question 4: Explain how the author signals a change in focus when the crystal is revealed.

Answer: The focus shifts from Eleanor’s actions to the significance of the crystal with the phrase ‘revealing a delicate, glowing crystal that illuminated the surrounding darkness,’ drawing attention to the object and its impact.

Question 5: Identify one example of a literary device used to emphasise the mystical quality of the crystal.

Answer: The phrase ‘a delicate, glowing crystal that illuminated the surrounding darkness’ employs imagery and personification to emphasise its mystical quality.

Question 6: Describe how the author uses sentence structure to create tension in the passage.

Answer: The author uses short, punchy sentences ('Her fingers brushed against the cool surface. The atmosphere thickened.') to quicken the pace and build tension.

Question 7: In your own words, summarise how the focus of the passage changes from beginning to end.

Answer: Initially, the focus is on the setting, describing the forest's vastness and mystery. As the story progresses, attention shifts to Eleanor’s discovery and the significance of the artefact, culminating in the revelation of the crystal which shifts her perception. The focus moves from environment to character and the symbol of the crystal.

Question 8: Analyse how the changing focus affects the overall mood of the passage.

Answer: The shifts in focus from the peaceful, mysterious forest to Eleanor’s discovery and the glowing crystal heighten the sense of intrigue and suspense. These changes create an atmospheric mood that evolves from calm to anticipation and wonder, engaging the reader’s curiosity.