Descriptive Compositions
A descriptive composition is an essay that gives details about someone or something in a
colorful, vivid detail.
The intent is to create a visual picture with words for the reader.
When writing the essay, it is important to observe and record specific details that appeal to
the reader’s senses (sight, hearing, touch, smell and taste).
Use adverbs and adjectives as well as similes to make your paragraphs more appealing
Take a look at these sentences and observe the differences in terms of their potential interest
to the reader.
Example 1: “At the window there was a fan.” (No appeal to the senses, the sentence is
vague)
Example 2: “The dusty window fan creaked as its rusty blades circulated the humid, musty
air from outside into the apartment.” (In this sentence, there is an appeal to the senses. Note
the use of adjectives)
A descriptive essay should be rich in sensory details.
When selecting a composition topic, choose a topic which you’re familiar with.
First, brainstorm a list of as many details that support the topic.
Use as many senses to describe a scene, a person, or an event.
Then, organize your details (physical order, size, or another appropriate order to the topic).
Begin to write the essay and include a strong topic sentence that speaks to the topic of the
essay.
A topic sentence is the main idea in a paragraph
Develop an introductory paragraph, body paragraph(s), and a concluding paragraph.
Reread and revise your essay by proofreading and correcting any mistakes in grammar,
spellings and expressions
Examples of descriptive topics
1. People and events shape our lives. A certain person or a particular experience might have
influenced you positively or negatively. Write about a person or experience which has
shaped your life in a positive or negative way.
2. You have just attended a concert, sports event, or a family gathering that you found to be
very enjoyable. Write about the event and use vivid detail to help the reader feel as if they
were at the event. Tell the reader why the event was so meaningful to you.
3. Describe from memory a place that you visited as a child. Write about the place and give
the reader enough details so that the importance of the place is revealed.
4. Describe a special natural place in the outdoors that has meaning for you. Describe it in a
sensory way that allows the reader to visualize your favorite spot. Be sure to include
reasons why this particular outdoor area is important to you.
5. If you could have a conversation with a famous person (living or dead), whom would you
choose? Describe in detail who this person is and why you would want to have a
conversation.
6. What characteristics do you regard as important in a person you would choose as a friend?
Describe to the reader in detail why these characteristics are important to you. Use reasons
and examples to support your point of view.