Definition
In a Descriptive Essay, the
writer paints a word picture of a person, place, object, or event that appeals
to one or more of the five senses (smell, taste, hearing, touch, and
sight). In this kind of essay, the
writer works to give a clear representation of the object of his close
observation and makes it clear why the subject is important.
Organization of an Observation Essay
Descriptions can be organized
spatially (left to right, top to bottom); chronologically (in time order); or
in order of importance (the thing that strikes you firs or that is dominant
about what you are describing).
Thesis Statements
The thesis statement
generally presents the subject of the description and/or establishes the tone
or mood of the description. It controls what
details you will include. It states
why the subject is important.
Tips on Writing
Have a purpose in
mind for the description of your observation.
Are you trying to be objective, or are you trying to convey an attitude,
opinion, or mood?
If you are
describing a person, try to help the reader see the person and his or her
character by describing appearance, dress, mannerisms, actions, and/or
speech. Descriptive details can be used
to suggest personality or character.
If you are
describing a place, scene or activity, you will need to select a physical
perspective or viewpoint on the subject and stick to it. Your perspective might be from a particular
position, time, season, etc.
If you are
describing an object, try to help the reader see the object and its meaning to
you. Rely on the five senses to evoke
the physical appearance and emotional association of the object.
Do you have an
emotional perspective of attitude toward your subject? Keep it in mind as you select the words to
describe the details.
Pitfalls
Avoid
disorganized descriptions. If your
description is haphazard, you will confuse your reader.
Avoid
inconsistent descriptions. Don’t mix
positive and negative perspectives; also don’t mix descriptions for varying
viewpoints.
Avoid
generalizations and abstractions. You
want to recreate a specific person, place or event for your readers. Give specific information.
Essay Guidelines
Due dates: Rough Draft due September 3; Final Draft due
September 17
Essay
length: at least 300 words (about 1
page)
Rough drafts can
be typed or hand-written, but must be double-spaced.
Final draft
format:
Typed (if this is
not possible, please let me know)
1 inch margins
Name and date on
the upper right hand corner
Number the pages
on the lower right hand corner
Title centered
above the text of the essay
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