classroom description creative writing

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classroom - quotes and descriptions to inspire creative writing

• school hallway

Teachers are being asked to teach kids who have eaten nothing, or sometimes breakfast was sugary pop. How can we justify expense for classrooms and specialist teachers and overlook the most basic thing kids need to thrive - food. Free school meals makes sense from every perspective - morality, health outcomes, education outcomes and building a sense of community kids can believe in.

Our classroom is a room of class, we may come from tower blocks but we are high society.

Into the classroom beams intrepid light.

A classroom atmosphere done right is the warmth of spring to new green buds.

Our classroom is so warm after the wintry chill outside. The teacher must have stayed late last night, yesterday it was all about autumn and now it's the holiday season everywhere I look. I pause, suddenly feeling lighter, a smile spreading over my face like it belongs there. I take my jacket off and place it in the cloakroom, my cheeks rosy. The air has a cinnamon perfume and already the room is mostly full. So many friends in one place, I guess that's why my smile has such staying power today.

Classrooms were once places of fear, it's hard to believe that now. Once they lined the children up and beat them into compliance. The first generation was always the hardest to subdue and after that their parents did most of the job for them. Comply or be beaten, comply or don't get food. We humans weren't meant to be compliant; we have strong hearts and strong wills. We aren't supposed to blindly follow and be told what to think. We are supposed to use our strong hearts to love and our curious minds to drive us to learn, to seek new answers, to boldly explore. We are nobody's trained monkeys. Our classrooms are places of love, of learning, or compassion. We enable our children to thrive and have self confidence. We teach them to be respectful to authority but always question and analyze - it is everybody's duty to think. We want our kids to be as difficult to herd as cats, everyone walking to the beat of their own drum with hearts full of love and happiness.

This classroom is my salvation. When I walk in here my mind is able to function, my stride grows longer and I can be who I really am. This is the place I am able to learn, to explore and be with friends who really understand me. Somehow in this classroom my differences are not only accepted but celebrated. We like being unique, doesn't that make life so much more interesting? Carter has a shock of pink hair, Lance is Mr. Action Man, and I'm a homebody in earthy tones. I think that's how we're supposed to be, right? Like a meadow instead of a neatly trimmed lawn.

Our classroom is where we come to learn how to learn, to ask questions, to be curious. Sure, there's still philosophy, but other than that we build our own projects and follow computer programs at our own pace. There are so many plants in here it's almost like being in a little jungle at times but I love them. The chairs and tables are all ergonomic, comfortable, though often we choose to sit on the floor mats at the low tables, or on the couch. Every room has a learning guide, a teacher, who's job it is to inspire and guide us when we ask for help.

Though the classroom walls are bare the windows are large. Everyone wants a window seat, to sit in the unsubdued light of the morning. Outside the sky is blue except for a few strands of stratus that trail like aeroplane trails. Whoever painted the walls in here must have had an imagination bypass, but then isn't that the education system all over? Fill our minds with facts we can google instead of teaching us how to think, question facts, experiment and explore. It isn't the nineteen hundreds anymore, they aren't preparing us to clock in and out at factories. The teacher walks in looking as inspired as a used tea bag and already I feel a daydream starting, a really good one. This teacher's gonna have to be really interesting if she wants to compete.

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SLAP HAPPY LARRY

Writing activity: describe a classroom.

Describe a classroom is the perfect writing activity for schools. Maybe you’re in a classroom right now. If so, you can write about that. If not, you can imagine any sort of classroom you like. It may be one classroom in particular, or it may be an amalgamation of several, or of all the classrooms you’ve ever set foot in. Or you might make it up completely.

Write what you see and imagine, not what you know.

Blackboards are really quite green, aren’t they? I wonder who scribbled on the board in the photo above. Do you think it was the teacher? What happened? This is a creative writing about setting, but I want you to imagine what happened in that classroom just before you wrote about it. This will affect the atmosphere in the room.

First, imagine the outside of the building. Is it a modern building or old? What’s it made of? Is it well-maintained, or in a state of disrepair? Whatever you imagine, exaggerate a little. If there’s a flight of steps leading up to the classroom, you might instead write of a long, winding staircase. Because that’s how it sometimes feels, if you don’t want to go to class.

Now we’re inside the classroom. In your mind, is it full of people, or are you alone? If you’re alone, why? Maybe you’ve been kept back after class. Perhaps you just imagine a teacher in there, preparing a lesson, or a magic potion to cast over his students tomorrow.

What’s on the walls? If you’re writing a fantasy scene, it’s sometimes better to ground the fantasy in reality by describing what might well be on the walls of a real classroom.

What’s the mood? This classroom looks like a cheerful place with a fun teacher.

This looks like a dreaded exam room.

So does this one. Sometimes it’s more fun to write about an unpleasant place than a happy one. Look at the details . What do you notice after a few minutes that you did not immediately see?

The windows cast squares of white upon the wall.

The linoleum tiles are lifting in places, perhaps where the cleaner spilled a bucket of water. (You can imagine whatever you like. The more you imagine the more interesting this will read to others, who will never imagine exactly the same thing as you do.)

Ask why. Why are all these chairs pushed to the back, and why are the red ones clustered together? Who sits in the red chairs, do you think?

What happened to the children who used to study here?

Notice the smallest detail . If you’re in a classroom right now, this will be easy. Perhaps there’s a lump of chewing gum stuck to the underside of your desk. (No, don’t check.) Or perhaps there are stains on the carpet.

See how this teacher doesn’t wipe previous sums from the board before starting on another. It looks a little as if he can’t remember his equations, so he tapes them above the board as reference. Notice the way the light bounces off his head. What is the most distinguishing thing about the teacher in your classroom? (Tip: don’t choose the teacher who’s going to be grading this particular paper.)

Now, your eyes are only of so much use.

How does your classroom smell? I can smell wet wool, because it’s been raining and every student wears a green, woollen jersey. The girls wear oatmeal woollen tights.

I smell orange peels and peanut butter, because it’s after lunch and 28 students just ate their lunches in here. No doubt some of them stuffed their waste between the bar heaters and the wall.

What can you hear? Even a quiet classroom is seldom without noise. If it is, you might hear the sound of biro on paper. I hear the rain outside, and students from an adjacent classroom about to visit the library. I hear someone at the back of the room tapping a ruler on the desk, absentmindedly but annoying.

Start with the largest detail, and zoom like a camera down to the most minuscule. Make stuff up. Let your mind make diversions. Imagine what has happened, what will happen, what maybe happened and what probably didn’t happen but is interesting anyway.

Write for ten minutes. Then see where you are. You may be surprised.

MENTOR TEXT: “MY LAST DUCHESS” BY MARGARET ATWOOD

The windows of our brand new schoolroom were high enough so we couldn’t see anything out of them except the sky. Today the sky was a hazy blue, a warm, drowsy colour. I wasn’t looking at it, but there it was, at the edge of eyesight, huge and featureless and soothing, rolling on and on like the sea. One of the window panels was open and some flies had come in. They were buzzing around, bumbling against the glass, trying to get out. I could hear them, but I couldn’t see them, I couldn’t risk turning my head. I was supposed to be thinking about last . […] It was afternoon, it was May, the trees outside were flowering, pollen was eddying everywhere. The classroom was too hot; it was filled with a vibration, the vibration of its newness — the blond wood of its curved, modern metal-framed desks, the greenness of its blackboards, the faint humming of its fluorescent lights, which seemed to hum even when they were turned off. But despite this newness there was an old smell in the room, an ancient, fermenting smell: an invisible stream was rising all around, oily, salty, given off by twenty-five adolescent bodies stewing gently in the humid springtime air. “My Last Duchess” by Margaret Atwood

FURTHER READING

• A short story set entirely within the boundary of a classroom is “ Carnation ” by Katherine Mansfield.
• In many scenes set in classrooms, windows are highly symbolic. A character will often feel trapped within a classroom, and uses the scene outside the window to allow their mind to wander. Windows are highly symbolic .

Header painting: Winslow Homer – The Country School

LATEST AUDIOBOOK (short story for children)

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• high school

Lonely Shadow Member

How to describe a classroom.

Discussion in ' Setting Development ' started by Lonely Shadow , Jan 5, 2017 .

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_9a1df3b1b25acbcd814c2aefc762b121'); }); For my current novel, I will be entering a new chapter where a character enters a classroom for the first time in his life. It would be one of the nicer, more comfortable classrooms where students would find it much more easier to relax and learn. I was thinking blues and greens and grays. Lots of pastel colors as well. How would one describe such a place? And for reference, my character is an angel. All of your answers are appreciated.  

Seren Writeaholic

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_9a1df3b1b25acbcd814c2aefc762b121'); }); Find some pictures of classrooms that fit your ideas to help you write the description. Though for a few pointers to get you going, I suppose there would be fabric chairs rather than plastic ones, and the tables wouldn't be engraved with drawings done using compasses. Generally, most books don't spend a great deal of time on describing classrooms: almost all of us know what one looks like. So don't get too caught up in describing it in perfect detail.  

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_9a1df3b1b25acbcd814c2aefc762b121'); }); Seren said: ↑ Find some pictures of classrooms that fit your ideas to help you write the description. Though for a few pointers to get you going, I suppose there would be fabric chairs rather than plastic ones, and the tables wouldn't be engraved with drawings done using compasses. Generally, most books don't spend a great deal of time on describing classrooms: almost all of us know what one looks like. So don't get too caught up in describing it in perfect detail. Click to expand...

watermark Member

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_9a1df3b1b25acbcd814c2aefc762b121'); }); Oh wow. It's surprising how little I remember about the classrooms of my youth now that you mention it. I think one detail worth mentioning may be the overall technology change. Only like a decade or so ago classrooms still use big wheel in TVs with video tapes, tape recorders, overhead transparencies projectors, and blackboards. These days it's my understanding that the better classrooms are outfitted with projectors, computers, interactive whiteboards, document cameras, and all sorts of wireless gizmos in addition to more comfortable chairs. The really high tech ones even got voice recognition locks, trackers of temperature and number of students in room, and 360 cameras so you can record the class and upload everything to the net. All very sci-fi-y, but it's true that these technologies are in actual use now.  

Tenderiser Not a man or BayView

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_9a1df3b1b25acbcd814c2aefc762b121'); }); What kind of place is he used to being in? Someone who's only ever seen a modern bathroom would be struck by the soft fabrics, the wood instead of porcelain, the strange fact that the walls are dull instead of gleaming white. Somebody who's grown up in a mansion with luxurious furniture would find a classroom stark and utilitarian. Someone who lives on a cloud would find it dark and hard. Description in a close POV (which it sounds like you're writing in) is totally dependent on the character, so the way people on this forum would describe a classroom is irrelevant. When I see classrooms, I see them in relation to my own school days. I don't really notice the colours, I see the classrooms I spent much of my childhood in, and the people I spent them with. Your angel has different experiences and memories and reference points, so he won't see what I see.  

Catrin Lewis Contributor Contributor Community Volunteer Contest Winner 2023

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_9a1df3b1b25acbcd814c2aefc762b121'); }); What grade level? Elementary school classrooms (KG to 5th or 6th grade) tend to be festooned with colorful posters--- educational, motivational, or just plain humorous. In some rooms, all the blackboard space is covered with them, because the teacher depends on technology alone (and doesn't that irritate me as a sub teacher!). Middle and high school rooms can have the same, but tend to be less decorated than those in the lower grades. The high school social studies room I'm in right now has gray walls, a variegated reddish-brown carpet, and a high, concrete coffered ceiling. The blackboard (never used) is hung with student art, an electoral map of the US, and posters re: school events. The desks, metal with plastic laminate tops, are arranged in groups of four. This room has one small window; many modern classrooms have no windows at all. Other rooms have the desks in rows and might have more stuff on the walls. Teachers often bring in artwork and sculpture reflecting their own interests, whether it has anything to do with their subject or not. But what your character sees and reacts to totally depends on his situation. Your angel--- has he taken on an appearance as a human, so he can interact with people as if he were one of them? Does he retain his supernatural knowledge and wisdom, or has that somehow been stripped from him? Why is he there, and what human age does he appear to be? Or is he present in his spiritual form, perhaps as an unseen guardian for one of the students? Or even, as a minister of death? Either way, if he retains his heavenly awareness, you might have him reflect ironically on the motivational posters because he knows the slogans on them are platitudinous bull. (A short Google search will bring up some pretty awful ones.) And if the mottos are true, maybe he knows these young humans can never live up to those principles and he shakes his head over it? I have no idea how much liberty you're taking with the nature of angels as traditionally understood. (Heaven knows, people come up with some pretty wild things these days.) But the Bible records that the good angels experience curiosity and wonder (both positive and negative) when looking upon mankind, so those reactions wouldn't be out of place in your classroom.  

deadrats Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_9a1df3b1b25acbcd814c2aefc762b121'); }); Lonely Shadow said: ↑ For my current novel, I will be entering a new chapter where a character enters a classroom for the first time in his life. It would be one of the nicer, more comfortable classrooms where students would find it much more easier to relax and learn. I was thinking blues and greens and grays. Lots of pastel colors as well. How would one describe such a place? And for reference, my character is an angel. All of your answers are appreciated. Click to expand...

matwoolf Banned Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_9a1df3b1b25acbcd814c2aefc762b121'); }); Marvin was our teacher. He wore dungarees, a woolly jersey and smiled from ear to ear. I knew early doors he was an asshole, or 'arsehole' as he corrected in his squeaky diction. 'You may sit anywhere you like,' he said. I sat in his chair, and before me the array of lurid cubes, hoola hoops and stickle bricks all hurt my eyes. 'Where can I piss?' I said. 'Down the hall,' he replied. I stretched, pissed over the artwork stretched long the boring corridor. [gotta go, tea's ready] WIP  

NiallRoach Contributor Contributor

googletag.cmd.push(function() { googletag.display('funpub_9a1df3b1b25acbcd814c2aefc762b121'); }); matwoolf said: ↑ Marvin was our teacher. He wore dungarees, a woolly jersey and smiled from ear to ear. I knew early doors he was an asshole, or 'arsehole' as he corrected in his squeaky diction. 'You may sit anywhere you like,' he said. I sat in his chair, and before me the array of lurid cubes, hoola hoops and stickle bricks all hurt my eyes. 'Where can I piss?' I said. 'Down the hall,' he replied. I stretched, pissed over the artwork stretched long the boring corridor. [gotta go, tea's ready] WIP Click to expand...

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The Top 20 Descriptive Paragraph Examples

Written by Dan

Last updated March 20, 2024

Are you tired of hearing your students say, “I don’t know how to write a descriptive paragraph!”? If so, you’re not alone! Writing compelling descriptions can be one of the most challenging parts for teachers and students.

But it doesn’t have to be so tricky! With suitable examples and guidance, anyone can become an expert in vividly describing people, places, things or events.

Before jumping into the deep end of resources out there, it’s a good idea for students to check out websites offering free essay samples, like StudyMoose .These platforms provide a wide range of free essays that can help students enhance their writing skills.

In this blog post, I will provide twenty stellar examples you can use as models for teaching your students how to write compelling descriptive paragraphs.

Related : For more, check out our article on Building Suspense In Writing here.

According to Grammarly , descriptive writing can enhance content, from an essay describing a historical event to a blog post narrating a personal experience.

IUP’s Writing Center further explains that effective descriptive writing evokes sights, smells, sounds, textures, and tastes, immersing readers in the narrative. But how does one master this craft?

Study.com provides a comprehensive lesson on the techniques and examples of descriptive writing, while LanguageTool offers insights into the illustrative writing style.

Table of Contents

Descriptive Paragraph Example 1:

The sun-kissed beach was a veritable haven. Soft, white sand stretched lazily from one end of the coastline to the other, inviting visitors to take off their shoes and dip their toes in the cool water.

Warm sunshine beat down on my skin as I walked along the smooth shoreline, enjoying the salty ocean breeze that greeted me with each step. In the distance, I could see boats anchored in the harbour, their masts swaying gracefully with the rhythm of the waves.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 2:

The older man shuffled slowly down the dirt road, a faded baseball cap pulled low over his eyes to shield them from the sun’s rays. He wore overalls and a flannel shirt, his hands calloused from years of hard work in the fields.

His face was craggy but kind- a life filled with stories hidden beneath the wrinkles that framed his eyes. I watched him as he walked, his steps light despite the weight of all he had seen.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 3:

The bustling city street was a melting pot of cultures, languages, and flavours. As eager shoppers stopped to examine their wares, merchants called out from their booths. Everywhere I looked, people were walking, talking, laughing- the occasional honk of a car horn punctuating the air.

The smells were a mix of mouthwatering cuisine from dozens of countries, the sound of different languages intermingling as the conversation drifted through the air.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 4:

The lush meadow was blanketed in soft green grass, punctuated with wildflowers in all rainbow colours. The sun shone brightly in the sky, warming everything beneath it with its gentle rays. In the distance, a stream babbled peacefully as birds chirped their songs from the trees that lined it.

The air was heavy with the sweet scent of honey, and I closed my eyes to take in all of its beauty.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 5:

The forest was alive with activity; small creatures skittered through the undergrowth while bright-coloured birds flitted from branch to branch overhead. A cool breeze caressed my skin and rustled through the leaves of nearby trees as I walked along the path, breathing deeply of the damp woodland air.

Everywhere I looked, lush greens and browns reminded me that life was flourishing here in this small corner of the world.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 6:

The ancient ruins surrounded a vast desert, their sand-covered stones looking out over miles of wind-swept dunes. I walked through the crumbling archway and into the courtyard, taking in the eerie silence that pervaded the entire site.

The sun beat down from above, its rays glinting off broken columns and walls that told stories of a forgotten time. Here was evidence of an ancient civilization that had disappeared into history.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 7:

The decrepit old mansion stood atop a hill like a silent sentinel watching over the valley below. Tall windows stared blankly from the walls, their glass panes long since shattered. The grounds were overgrown with weeds and wildflowers, a testament to the fact that no one had set foot here in many years.

I stepped through the doorway and into what felt like an entirely different world- a place filled with secrets and stories waiting to be discovered.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 8:

The silver moon shone brightly against the night sky, its reflection glittering on the lake’s still surface below. Fireflies sparkled around me like stars fallen from the heavens, their lights twinkling with those of distant galaxies.

Crickets chirped softly as they scuttled across my path while owls hooted in the distance. Everything felt peaceful and calm, like time had stopped to admire this magical moment.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 9:

The beach was a tranquil paradise, soft white sand stretching towards an endless blue horizon. The waves crashed gently against the shore, their foamy spray cooling my skin under the hot afternoon sun.

Seagulls hovered overhead, crying as they searched for food along the shoreline. Everywhere I looked, there was beauty; everything seemed perfect at that moment, from the towering palm trees to the sparkling sea below.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 10:

The snow-capped mountain peak rose majestically above me, its rocky sides glinting in the bright sunlight. I could feel the chill of the air around me and see my breath misting in front of me as I trudged up the steep path.

All was silent except for a few birds singing in the distance and the occasional avalanche tumbling down one of the nearby slopes. Everywhere I looked, there were breathtaking views and a sense of awe at being so close to such a powerful force of nature.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 11:

The sun was setting, painting the sky in vibrant shades of orange, pink and purple. The clouds were streaked with golden light, completing the brilliant spectacle that was taking place all around me.

I stopped to take it all in, feeling deep gratitude and awe at witnessing such a beautiful sight. All my worries seemed so far away at that moment; here, nothing else mattered but enjoying this fantastic view.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 12:

The dusty roads wound their way through the rolling hills of the countryside, lined by ancient trees whose roots had grown deep over centuries. Wildflowers flourished in splashes of colour against the backdrop of green fields and blue sky.

The air was sweet with the scent of fresh-cut hay and the buzzing of bees. There was a beauty that could only be found in nature, a timeless reminder of the power and magnificence of the world around us.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 13:

The city skyline glowed in all its glory against the night sky, its skyscrapers towering majestically above me. Cars whizzed by on crowded streets, neon signs flashing in their wake, while music drifted through the air from distant clubs and bars.

People bustled about their business with purpose and energy, carrying an infectious enthusiasm for life. Everywhere I looked, I saw evidence of progress and growth; it was a sight that reminded me just how vast and varied our world is.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 14:

The desert stretched out before me, a vast expanse of red sand and sun-bleached rocks. The heat was oppressive but calming, the warm breeze carrying an earthy scent. In the distance, I could see dust devils whirling across the dunes, throwing up clouds of golden sand in their wake.

It felt like a place stuck in time, where one could take refuge from the frenetic pace of modern life and find solace in nature.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 15:

The forest was alive with sound and colour; birdsong filled the air while shafts of sunlight pierced through the canopy above, dappling the ground below with splashes of gold.

The trees stood tall and proud, their leaves rustling in the gentle breeze. Everywhere I looked, there was evidence of life; from the scurrying squirrels to the buzzing insects, it seemed as if everything had been frozen in perfect harmony and balance. It was an enchanting sight that made me feel profoundly alive.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 16:

The lake shimmered in the afternoon light, its still waters reflecting the clouds above. The sun shone brightly in a deep blue sky, making everything around me seem alive and vibrant. I could feel the warmth of the sand beneath my feet as I walked along the beach, watching the waves lap against the shoreline.

Everywhere I looked, there was beauty; from the towering mountains on either side to the lush greenery that covered them, it was an idyllic setting that filled my heart with joy.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 17:

The stars twinkled in all their glory above me, casting an ethereal glow over everything below. I stood in awe, my eyes searching the night sky for constellations. The moon shone brightly, its pale light illuminating the darkness and giving everything an otherworldly feel.

It was a breathtaking sight that reminded me of the power and mystery of our universe. Here I could escape from my troubles and bask in the beauty of nature’s grandeur.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 18:

The thunder roared as it rolled across the horizon, creating a rumbling sound that could be felt deep beneath my feet. Lightning crackled above, illuminating the sky with flashes of brilliant white light. The rain poured down in sheets, washing away all traces of dirt and dust from everything it touched.

This violent storm was both awe-inspiring and frightening in its intensity, a reminder of the unpredictability of nature. I felt as though I was witnessing something that could never be recreated; a moment of beauty and power that would stay with me forever.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 19:

The autumn air was crisp and clean, filled with the smell of fallen leaves and freshly cut wood. The last rays of sunlight cast an orange hue over everything, creating an ethereal atmosphere that seemed almost magical.

Everywhere I looked were vibrant red, gold, and orange shades as trees shed their leaves for the winter ahead. It was a beautiful sight that reminded me how quickly time passes and how we must cherish each moment before it slips away. It was a reminder of just how vast and varied our world is.

Descriptive Paragraph Example 20:

The snow fell softly from the sky, blanketing the world in a thick layer of white. C crystalline frost covered trees, and icicles hung from rooftops, their needles glistening in the pale moonlight.

Everything was still and silent; it felt like I was the only living soul for miles. With each breath, the cold air filled my lungs, and I savoured this moment of peace, so pure and untouched by modern life. This was nature at its finest, a reminder of how fragile our existence is.

1. What is descriptive language?

Descriptive language is a literary tool used by writers to paint vivid pictures in the reader’s mind. It involves using adjectives, adverbs, metaphors, similes, and other figurative language to describe a scene, person, or situation in detail.

2. Why is descriptive language important in descriptive paragraphs?

The essence of a descriptive paragraph lies in its ability to create a clear and vivid image in the reader’s mind. Descriptive language is instrumental in achieving this, as it adds depth, detail, and color to your writing, making it more engaging and relatable for your audience.

3. Can you give an example of descriptive language?

Absolutely! Consider this sentence: “The sun set over the ocean.” Now, let’s add some descriptive language: “The fiery sun slowly sank beneath the horizon, casting a golden glow over the tranquil, azure ocean.”

4. How can I improve my use of descriptive language?

Practice makes perfect! Try to incorporate descriptive language into your everyday writing. Read widely to expose yourself to different styles of descriptive writing. Experiment with various literary devices such as metaphors, similes, and personification.

5. Does using more adjectives and adverbs make my writing more descriptive?

Not necessarily. While adjectives and adverbs play a key role in descriptive writing, it’s essential to use them judiciously. Too many can make your writing seem overwrought and confusing. The goal should be clarity and precision.

6. How does descriptive language contribute to the tone of a paragraph?

Descriptive language can significantly influence the tone of a paragraph. For instance, using words like ‘gloomy’, ‘dreary’, or ‘haunting’ can create a dark or melancholic tone, while words like ‘vibrant’, ‘lively’, or ‘sparkling’ can evoke a more upbeat and positive tone.

7. Can descriptive language be used in all types of writing?

While descriptive language is most commonly associated with creative writing, it can be effectively used in almost all types of writing, including academic, business, and online content marketing, to engage readers and make the content more memorable. Remember, mastering descriptive language is a journey. Keep practicing, keep experimenting, and most importantly, keep having fun with your words. After all, isn’t that what writing is all about?

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About The Author

I'm Dan Higgins, one of the faces behind The Teaching Couple. With 15 years in the education sector and a decade as a teacher, I've witnessed the highs and lows of school life. Over the years, my passion for supporting fellow teachers and making school more bearable has grown. The Teaching Couple is my platform to share strategies, tips, and insights from my journey. Together, we can shape a better school experience for all.

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Learning in Room 213

Lessons, Strategies & Digital Courses

Descriptive Writing – Strategies for Teaching

May 28, 2018 by Room 213 Leave a Comment

There are many places to access great mentor texts, but my favourites are Time Opinion , The Atlantic,   New York Times Op-Eds , and  Mitch Albom’s Sports Articles . 

I break the skills of descriptive writing into chunks and present mini-lessons paired with mentor texts. One day we might look at tired words and active verbs. Another we will look at sensory images. Each time I model the skill then give kids a chance to practice it themselves. For example, if we are talking about verb choice, I will show them lots of examples, like the ones in Lyon’s piece above:  cameras whirred and the audience roared. I ask them how the verbs whirred and roared affect the meaning of the sentence.  Then, they practice. I do this in a number of ways: I might give them mentor sentences to mimic, or I’ll have them read over some of their journal entries to look for places where they can use more effective, active verbs.

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Using Descriptive Writing in your Class

Dr. selena kiser.

• September 17, 2020

Descriptive writing is the essence of students expressing vivid details through the writing process. This type of specific writing is imperative to creating writers because it allows students to express themselves. This writing goes outside the bounds of just assigning a topic and writing an essay. Descriptive writing enhances creativity, engagement , and enjoyment for the writer and the reader.

What is Descriptive Writing?

Descriptive writing gives the reader the sense they can visualize what the writer is writing about. Students “show and not tell” in their writing. Writers close their eyes and envision what they hear, smell, see, feel, and taste. They use sensory details using the five senses to help write the description. Teachers encourage students to take a mental snapshot of what they are describing.

Students need a topic or main idea to focus on throughout the descriptive writing. The student writes about one topic, and this will become the thesis statement. It is important to ask yourself what you are trying to say about the topic throughout this writing process. Then, add supporting details using your senses for what you hear, see, smell, feel, and taste.

When writing the supporting details, students must be specific and include descriptive phrases. This is also a great way for students to demonstrate their creativity and make it more interesting. Using details provides a more accurate picture of what they are writing about.

When writing descriptively, avoid redundancy and describe details with similes and metaphors. Students avoid simple statements such as. “The lady is bored.” Describe without telling and let the reader know what makes the lady bored and how you know that. It is important to pick out a few details and elaborate on them. Use vivid adjectives and details to show the effect of what you are trying to describe. Another great tip is to emphasize unnoticed items in the description.

What are the Benefits of Descriptive Writing?

There are a multitude of benefits of utilizing descriptive writing. This type of writing allows teachers and students to be creative. It enhances and promotes language, new vocabulary, and encourages students to learn about things they are unfamiliar with. It allows students to think outside of the box and expand on their thoughts.

Descriptive writing allows students autonomy in what they choose to write about. Students may want to write more if they are given freedom and possess a different energy. They are driven by an inner goal and have more joy regarding the assignment. This is intrinsic motivation , and they have a degree of control over what they are learning. Providing this opportunity also increases the possibility for other higher-level thinking skills such as conducting research .

This type of writing also enhances organization and clarifies understanding. The writing becomes so descriptive that the readers can see it in their minds. They utilize a specific writing process, and then let their creativity flow. Motivating students to explore more deeply is thought provoking. It is amazing to see what students can do when given the opportunity.

Ways to Use Descriptive Writing in Your Class

Teachers should provide regular and varied opportunities for students to use descriptive writing in their classrooms. Students may choose a topic that they know a little about but need to research further. The beauty of descriptive writing is that there is not one right way to do it.

A general idea for utilizing descriptive writing is providing topics in a writing jar. This could be a mason jar with popsicle sticks in it and have various topics written on them. Students would randomly choose a topic. This idea enhances their ability to stretch and learn about new topics.

Another example includes students bringing in a picture of their favorite vacation spot or favorite pastime (e.g. fishing) and allow them to describe the destinations to their audience.  Engagement is extremely high in these assignments because students are writing about something they love and enjoy. Teachers can also incorporate contests with the writing and display students’ work on a Writing Wall in a museum-type setting .

Writing can be incorporated into many subject areas. Examples of this include writing details of how students conducted a science experiment or writing about a famous historical figure. These are great ways to get students interested, and they learn so many facts because they are encompassing many skills in the process.

• #DescriptiveWriting

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Describing Personal Events – Fiction or Nonfiction

Use these descriptive writing prompts to let students reflect on their past and future. They will love sharing their lives with the class and using descriptive writing to do so.

• Describe the most interesting person you have ever met.
• Talk about a person you envy in detail. What do they look like or what do they have.
• Describe an inspirational friend or family member.
• Tell us about a place you love to visit with plenty of detail.
• Think of your favorite sport or hobby. Describe an object you would use to play that sport or do that hobby.
• Tell us about the first time you rode a bicycle.
• Imagine you are on a walk or hike, tell us all about it.
• Describe your favorite happy memory.
• What are you like first thing in the morning? Describe it.
• Detail your favorite outfit. Why do you love it so much?
• Describe your own face and what makes you unique.
• What type of music makes you happy? Talk about it in detail.
• Describe a time you felt excited.
• Tell us about a time something totally unexpected happened.
• Describe the house you currently live in (or one you grew up in).

Describing Hypothetical Scenarios

Hypothetical scenarios are super fun to write about. They are a great tool for descriptive writing prompts because they let kids use their imagination a little bit.

• Pretend you came across a spooky place or haunted mansion. Tell us what you see and hear.
• You’re at the art museum. Talk about a piece you see there. It can be a sculpture, painting, or something else.
• You found a lucky object, describe it to us.
• Invent a pet you’ve never had and tell us about it.
• Write about a day at the beach using all five senses.
• Tell us about a trip to an amusement park using all five senses.
• You’re at the zoo! What do you see and hear?
• Imagine you wake up in the hospital. What would you see and hear? What would you do?
• You have to describe Thanksgiving to an alien. How would you tell them what it is?
• It’s a snow day! Talk about what you experienced.
• Tell a time traveler what a smartphone is!
• Imagine you meet someone famous! Who are they and how is your experience?
• Describe a peaceful place you’ve visited or made up.
• Your birthday party is crashed by all sorts of birds! What’s it like?
• Monkeys took over your kitchen to bake a pie. What’s inside?

Describing Food and Other Objects

Food is the perfect way to describe things in our writing. These descriptive writing prompts allow kids to write about the good and bad of food, as well as other objects.

• Your parents served the worst vegetable ever for dinner. Describe it in detail.
• Your sister brought in something nasty from outside. What is it? Tell us all about it.
• The best dessert ever is __________. Tell us how it tastes.
• How is your favorite food made? Use tons of details using the senses.
• How would you describe a field of green grass?
• Tell us what you would do in a field of wildflowers on a summer’s day.
• Describe a normal trip to the grocery store. Walk us through the whole trip.
• What is your least favorite meal? Use details to describe why that is.
• Tell us about your favorite drink. Talk about the color, the taste, and whether it’s hot or cold.
• Something in the trash stinks. What is it?
• You wake up and smell something amazing coming from the kitchen. Tell us what you smell.
• You’re having a campfire with your friends. Describe what you see, hear, smell, and taste.
• What is the most disgusting food you have ever tried?
• You accidentally ate dog food! What’s it taste like?
• Your mom poured you a glass of sour milk on accident! Describe it.

Random Descriptive Writing Prompts

Use these random descriptive writing prompts to get the creative juices flowing in the classroom. Some are silly and some are more serious, but they will all help build students’ writing skills.

• Do you think using descriptive writing is important?
• Describe your bed sheets, pillows, and other objects in your room.
• Tell us about your favorite day. Talk about the weather, what you would wear, where you would go, etc.
• Describe the Fourth of July to someone with tons of detail.
• Walk us through a typical day at school. What might you see, hear, smell, and do?
• Pick your favorite teacher and describe them in detail.
• Use tons of descriptive words to describe a sunset!
• Pick a classmate in the room and write about their best qualities.
• Write a descriptive story using these 3 things: a whole pizza pie, a bucket of slugs, and a pack of wolves.
• Write about how it would feel to sit in the hot summer covered in a blanket.
• Tell us how you imagine it would feel to be trapped in a giant freezer.
• Describe a place you have dreamed about that doesn’t exist.
• Tell us about a trip to the dentist gone wrong!
• Write about something that makes you laugh.
• Tell us about something that annoys you. It could be the sound of someone chewing, noises on the chalkboard, etc.

If you liked these descriptive writing prompt ideas, fill out the form below to have a printable list emailed directly to you so that you always have it!

60 Descriptive Writing Prompt Ideas

This FREE printable list of 60 descriptive writing prompt ideas can be sent straight to your inbox! Simply drop your personal email address below & I’ll send it right over! 

*Using a school email address makes it very likely that you won’t receive your freebi e! 

Use these pre-planned descriptive writing prompts to make your descriptive writing lessons easier! All you have to do is pick one, model it for your students, and let the creative process begin!

To learn more about Teaching Descriptive Writing , check out these fun ideas.

You may also enjoy using my Weekly Descriptive Writing Prompts ! They are available in paper and digital forms. Simply pin the image below to save this post for later!

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