Question
You are advised to write between 350 and 500 words on the following topic:
‘The Dare.’ Write a story in which a character does something risky or dangerous.
Model Essay
It was the start of summer break, and the small town of Willow Creek buzzed with the excitement of newfound freedom. For Sam and his friends, this meant long days of adventure and mischief. One afternoon, as they lounged in their secret hideout—a ramshackle treehouse deep in the woods—an idea began to brew.
“Let’s make this summer unforgettable,” Jake announced, a mischievous glint in his eye. “I dare you, Sam, to climb the old water tower and leave your mark at the top.”
The water tower had been abandoned for years, its rusted frame looming over the town like a silent sentinel. Local legends abounded about the tower: some said it was haunted, others claimed it was structurally unsound. The dare was risky, dangerous even, but that was precisely what made it irresistible.
Sam’s heart pounded at the thought. He glanced at the expectant faces of his friends, all eager to see if he’d accept the challenge. “Alright,” he said, trying to sound braver than he felt. “I’ll do it tonight.”
As twilight descended, Sam made his way to the water tower. The sky was a deep purple, the first stars beginning to twinkle. He carried a backpack with a flashlight, a can of spray paint, and a rope—just in case. When he reached the base of the tower, he paused to gather his courage. The structure seemed even more imposing up close, its metal frame creaking in the evening breeze.
Taking a deep breath, Sam began to climb. The ladder was slick with rust and age, and each step felt more precarious than the last. He focused on his breathing, trying to steady his nerves. The higher he climbed, the more the ground seemed to fall away, until he felt as if he were suspended between earth and sky.
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Halfway up, the wind picked up, making the tower sway slightly. Sam’s heart raced, but he forced himself to keep going. The thought of backing down was unbearable; he’d never hear the end of it from his friends. He finally reached the top, his hands trembling as he hoisted himself onto the platform.
The view was breathtaking. Willow Creek spread out below him, a patchwork of lights and shadows. For a moment, he forgot his fear, lost in the beauty of the night. Then, remembering the dare, he pulled out the can of spray paint. He chose a spot on the metal railing and scrawled his initials: S.J. It felt like a triumph, a claim staked in defiance of fear.
Just as he finished, a loud creak echoed through the night. The platform shuddered, and Sam’s heart leaped into his throat. The stories about the tower’s instability flashed through his mind. Panic surged, but he forced himself to stay calm. He had to get down—carefully, but quickly.
Climbing down proved even more harrowing than the ascent. The wind seemed determined to knock him off balance, and every step felt like it might be his last. But inch by inch, he descended, his breath coming in short, sharp bursts. When his feet finally touched solid ground, he collapsed, his legs shaking uncontrollably.
His friends were waiting for him at the edge of the woods, their faces a mix of worry and awe. “You did it!” Jake exclaimed, clapping him on the back. “You’re a legend, man!”
Sam managed a weak smile. “Never again,” he said, his voice hoarse. But deep down, he knew this night would be a story he’d tell for years to come—a testament to bravery, foolishness, and the indomitable spirit of youth.
Word Count: 594