class 2 descriptive essay

Overview of the Descriptive Essay

  • Definition: A descriptive essay draws a picture through words, allowing the reader to visualize the subject.

  • Importance of Topic Selection: Choose a topic that is tangible and observable, not abstract.

    • Example of Poor Topics: Friendship – cannot be described with physical characteristics.

    • Example of Good Topics: Physical objects such as a car, house, friend, or furniture.

Common Errors in Descriptive Essays

  1. Choosing Inappropriate Topics

    • Focus on objects that can be seen and touched.

    • Avoid abstracts that lack physical attributes.

  2. Inadequate Description

    • Mentioning items without detailed descriptions.

    • Example Error: "In my room, there is a chair" - lacks detail.

    • Improvement: Describe each item in detail before moving to the next.

  3. Insufficient Detail

    • Simply stating attributes (e.g., "a beautiful table") is inadequate.

    • Provide comprehensive descriptions covering size, color, material, etc.

    • Visualize all aspects of the objects to enhance clarity for the reader.

  4. Improper Use of Verb Tenses

    • Generally use present tense to describe current observations.

    • Add past information after thorough descriptions if necessary.

  5. Poor Language Style

    • Avoid repetition and unnecessary sentences.

    • Combine descriptive information into concise sentences for clarity.

    • Example: “I have a red, round wooden table.”

Structuring a Descriptive Essay

  • Opening Paragraph: Should include a brief introduction to the topic.

  • Thesis Statement: Clear statement of what will be described; should focus on one topic.

    • Example: "The picture of my mother has fascinated me..."

Writing Body Paragraphs

  • Each paragraph should focus on one aspect of the description.

  • Use coherent and logical order when describing characteristics.

    • Emphatic Order: Start with the most important features to maintain reader interest.

  • Incorporate sensory details to create vivid imagery.

Example Essays

1. Family Portrait

  • Element: Description of the Picture

    • Features that resemble the writer.

    • Aspect of clothing and jewelry.

    • Potential error: Including narrative details should be avoided in descriptive essays.

2. The Diner at Midnight

  • Element: Contrast

    • Starts describing diners positively, leading to the contrasting negative experience.

  • Descriptive Techniques

    • Uses physical observations to convey feelings (e.g., quietness equating to loneliness).

    • Summary: Each body paragraph reflects visual elements to illustrate feelings that cannot physically be described.

Conclusion of Descriptive Essays

  • Reflection and Opinion: Should summarize main points without introducing new topics.

  • Structure: Briefly recapture main attributes highlighted in the body paragraphs and provide a personal closing thought or suggestion.

Important Reminders

  • Always aim to evoke imagery through detailed descriptions.

  • Ensure all elements of writing are clear, concise and maintain coherence throughout the essay.