Descriptive Writing
Descriptive writing is a paragraph that describes a thing, a person, a
place, or an event. Detailed information allows the reader to form an image
in his or her imagination. The better the description, the clearer the image.
This is a composition of about 100-120 words. The ideas should be
systematically presented with important points coming first followed by the
not-so-important points. The heading is essential to the description and
should be short and crisp.
Format
Heading
(Leave a line)
Content in one paragraph
1. Describing People
Points to remember
● Physical attributes – height, weight, age, complexion, facial features,
● dress, etc.
● Intellectual qualities – intelligent, imaginative, creative, mediocre
● Emotional and moral qualities – trustworthy, confident, warm,
● sincere, selfish, cruel, patient
● Social status; role/profession
● Others ̳ perceptions about him/her
● Any other relevant trait
● Use simple present tense.
● Avoid repetition.
Model description
Dr. Rachna- My Family Doctor
Dr. Rachna, our family doctor, has been taking care of our health for the past
four years. She is thirty years old. She is tall and has lovely long hair. In spite
of a short experience in her line of work, she has always diagnosed our
illnesses accurately and prescribed medicine accordingly. She also treats the
families of security guards and other workers in our society for free.
Sometimes she gets irritated with their unhygienic habits. It is her dream to
open a charitable hospital for poor children. She is a kind and selfless person.
She is a role model for many young children in our society including me.
Practice Question
Write a description of any person in your family or your locality who
has influenced you immensely. Highlight his/her striking personality
traits.
2. Describing Places
Description of a place involves developing a complete mental picture of
a particular place. A good description allows the reader to get a
comprehensive view of the place under discussion.
Points to remember
● written in a paragraph of 100-120 words, based on facts
● third person to be used
● clear and comprehensive language
● well-structured sentences to make the description effective
● Heading: Name of the place with a suitable tagline
Model description
Recently you visited South India as a part of your school trip. Describe
any one of the places that attracted you the most there. (80-100 words)
Kanyakumari – The Union of Three Oceans
It is situated at the southernmost tip of India. It is the meeting place of The
Indian Ocean, The Bay of Bengal, and The Arabian Sea. One has to travel
through Chennai or Kerala to reach Kanyakumari. The temple at
Kanyakumari is a delight. It is known for the large number of devotees
who throng the temple every season. The diamond nose ring worn by the
deity can be seen from a fairly long distance. Pilgrims offer prayers at the
place for their forefathers. The sunrise and sunset are a delightful
spectacle. The Vivekananda Rock situated near the temple is known for its
serenity. Tourists worldwide visit this place, irrespective of caste, creed, or
colour throughout the year.
Practice Question
Write a description of a heritage site in/around your city that is a tourist
attraction in about 80-100 ________________________________