Descriptive Text
by Sudarmono
What is Descriptive Text?
Definition: A text which says what a person or a
thing is like.
Purpose: To describe and reveal a particular
person, place, or thing in detail.
Goal: To create a clear "mental picture" for the
reader.
Generic Structure
Identification: * Introduces the "Who", "What", or
"Where" of the subject.
Located in the first paragraph.
Description:
Describes parts, qualities, and
characteristics.
Focuses on physical appearance, personality,
or specific features.
Language Features
Specific Participant: Focused on a specific object
(e.g., Borobudur Temple, My Mother, My Pet).
Simple Present Tense: Uses the first form of verbs
($V_1$) because it tells facts.
Adjectives: Words that describe nouns (e.g.,
stunning, giant, soft, blue).
Linking Verbs: Words like is, am, are, look, seem
(e.g., He is very tall).
Example - Describing a Place
Title: The Majestic Pink Beach
Identification: Pink Beach, or Pantai Merah, is one of the
seven pink sand beaches in the world, located in Komodo
Island, Indonesia.
Description: The beach is famous for its breathtaking
scenery and unique pink sand. This color comes from
microscopic animals called Foraminifera. The water is
crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. The surrounding
hills are green, making the view even more spectacular.
Example - Describing a Place
Title: The Majestic Pink Beach
Identification: Pink Beach, or Pantai Merah, is one of the
seven pink sand beaches in the world, located in Komodo
Island, Indonesia.
Description: The beach is famous for its breathtaking
scenery and unique pink sand. This color comes from
microscopic animals called Foraminifera. The water is
crystal clear and perfect for snorkeling. The surrounding
hills are green, making the view even more spectacular.
Example - Describing a Person
The Subject: Rafael Nadal
1. Identification (Introduction)
Rafael Nadal is a world-famous professional tennis player from Spain. He is widely regarded
as one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, especially known as the "King of
Clay."
2. Description (Body Paragraphs)
Physical Appearance: Nadal has a very athletic and muscular build, which he maintains
through intense training. He stands about 185 cm tall. He has tanned skin, dark brown hair, and
intense, focused eyes. When he plays, he often wears a headband to keep his hair out of his
face.
Personality and Character: Off the court, he is known as a humble and polite person. However,
on the court, he is incredibly persistent and mentally tough. He never gives up on a point, no
matter how difficult the situation is.
Distinguishing Marks: He is famous for being left-handed on the court (even though he is
naturally right-handed) and for his unique "topspin" shot that is very difficult for opponents to
return.
Vocabulary Booster
Descriptive Words
Physical Appearance
Slender, tanned, athletic, pointed nose, curly hair
Personality
Generous, witty, persistent, ambitious, friendly
Atmosphere
Serene, vibrant, mysterious, ancient, cozy
Writing Tips (The Sensory Approach)
Sight: What does it look like? (Colors, shapes, sizes)
Smell: Does it have a specific scent? (Fresh, floral,
smoky)
Touch: How does it feel? (Rough, smooth, cold)
Sound: What noises does it make? (Quiet, buzzing,
melodic)
Conclusion & Closing
Summary: Descriptive text identifies a subject and
describes its specific details using adjectives and the
simple present tense.
Closing: "Thank you for listening! Do you have any
questions?"
Thank you
for learning with me today!