Descriptive Essay I can see for miles and miles…..

What is a descriptive essay? All essays "describe", but a "descriptive essay" focuses on a physical description of a topic in order to make a point. Generally, this essay form begins with a vivid introduction of the topic, a collection of images and metaphors that catch the reader's attention by appealing to his senses. The reader sees and feels the experience of standing in a field of new mown hay, of the terror of the slow, clacking ascent to the top of a roller coaster, of the painful loneliness suggested by the finely tuned, exquisite cell phone that glitters in the moonlight, but never rings.

Characteristics Well focused subject Specific descriptive details Clear pattern of organization One clear dominant impression (thesis)

Guidelines and Rules Write about people, places, things, moments, events or theories Give all details first to build the dominant impression Check to make sure that all your details support your dominant impression Move your reader through time and space in a coherent, logical manner Show, don’t tell!!!

Goals Describe a particular person, place, thing, event, moment or theory Place the reader “in your shoes” to allow him or her to experience your descriptions Create an overall general impression with a meaning or message

Introduction Introduce what you are going to describe in your essay Provide any necessary background info about the topic Hint at your thesis or general impression. You do not have to overtly state it.

Body Be sure to have an intelligent organizational pattern Have vivid sensory details Show, don’t tell: –He was sick –Jeremy’s face suddenly turned an ugly shade of pale grey and his eyes yellowed over as he bolted from his char, hand over his mouth. –Build up your dominant impression throughout

Conclusion Be sure that your reader has realized your dominant impression. Restate if necessary Leave your reader feeling what your want him or her to feel.