Rebecca Andrew and Mr Stone stop on dry path before barrier closing wooden bridge over stream.

The Stream Crossing

School Readers · Level 12

Rebecca and Andrew are on a woodland walk with Mr Stone. Their route crosses a small stream by a wooden bridge. When they reach it, a barrier blocks the way. The bridge is closed for repairs.

Andrew observes stepping stones submerged in flowing stream from dry bank while Mr Stone gestures stay on path and Rebecca studies paper map.

Andrew looks at the stepping stones nearby. Water is running over the tops. “We will not cross there,” says Mr Stone. Rebecca takes out their map and looks for another route.

Rebecca shows map to Andrew who looks concerned while Mr Stone checks wristwatch on dry woodland path.

The map shows a second bridge farther along the path. It will make their walk longer. Andrew worries they may miss the bus back to school. Mr Stone checks the time.

Group approaches second open wooden bridge with sound boards and rail, teacher leading.

“We have time if we turn back after crossing,” he says. They follow the path beside the stream. Soon they reach the second bridge. It is open, with firm boards and a rail.

Rebecca Andrew and Mr Stone safely on opposite bank looking back towards distant workers repairing first bridge behind barrier.

Rebecca and Andrew cross with Mr Stone. From the other bank, they can see the closed bridge. Workers are replacing its boards. “Now I understand the barrier,” says Andrew.

Rebecca folds map beside parked school bus with Andrew and Mr Stone at woodland trail end.

They take the return path and reach the bus in time. Rebecca folds the map. “The walk changed, but we still crossed the stream,” she says. “And we chose a safe way,” adds Andrew.

The Stream Crossing

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