What is it?

Descriptive Essay Defined

A descriptive essay is an essay in which a writer describes a person, place, or object. This can be accomplished through vivid language, examples, comparing and/or contrasting, or playing on a reader’s senses.

Basically, its purpose is to describe.

The BasicsChoose a topic that is very specific as the meat

of your essay will be spent showing your readers the topic rather than telling them about it.

Include expansive/numerous details and descriptions so that your readers can experience the topic along with you (remember to continually play on their senses).

Carefully organize the details in order to paint a logical, progressive picture with your words.

It’s All In The DetailsYour work should focus on describing sensory

details

These details should go beyond the usual, color, shape, etc., and work to transport your readers to the place or see the person or object before them.

Use details that help them to relive the experience

A descriptive essay is a sort of virtual reality with words.

Helpful LinksThe following are links to sites that can aid in

the creation and further understanding of the Descriptive essay:

http://www.hancockcollege.edu/owl/pdf/Other%20Handouts/Descriptive%20words.pdf

http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/685/03

http://leo.stcloudstate.edu/acadwrite/descriptive.html

Weekly ReadingDon’t forget to read through The College

Writing Skills Text as it provides an in depth discussion on the descriptive essay.

It is a good idea to reference this as you discuss and prove your understanding in the threads.

ReferencesJordan-Henley, J. (1988). A Brief Guide to Writing Descriptive

Essays. Retrieved October 1, 2009, from http://www.rscc.cc.tn.us/owl&writingcenter/OWL/Describe.html

Vancouver School District. (1999). A Brief Guide to Writing Descriptive Essays. Retrieved October 1, 2009, from http://www.vansd.org/inctr/LaWEB/Descriptive.html