What does this image make you think of?

In groups, write down key words and phrases which describe this image.

Challenge: use writing techniques to describe this image.

 Learning Objective

How do writers build vivid and engaging descriptions?

 Descriptive Writing Techniques
To make sure your work is ‘vivid’ and ‘engaging’, you should use a
range of techniques.

Complete the table. You should write your own example and your own
definition.

The examples must be describing Miss Havisham’s Mansion.

As a challenge, there are 2 rows which are empty. Use your own
knowledge and write about 2 more techniques which you could use to
 Model Answer
The wind viciously howled in the distance and large branches crashed to the
ground. The windows on the mansion were dark and dismal; you couldn’t see
the people who lived within. As I walked towards the mansion the branches
violently cracked beneath my feet; my heart suddenly leapt from my chest. I
looked directly at the rusty door and reached towards the handle; as I turned
the handle, wood pierced my skin.

Nervously, I crept inside and looked towards the grand staircase – sweat
cascaded down my forehead. My chest pounded more than ever and then I
heard it: “who’s there?”
 Main Task
You are going to create a ‘vivid’ and ‘engaging’ piece of descriptive
writing based on one of three images.

Make sure that you refer to the success criteria on the learning mat.

As a challenge, try and use ‘personification’ and/or ‘metaphors’ in

your writing.
 Peer-Assessment
• Swap your work with the person you are sat next to.
Success Criteria:
1. Include a range of engaging • Read through their work.
adjectives and adverbs.
2. Include descriptive techniques,
such as similes, metaphors and • In the peer assessment box, write down two things
personification.
that you like about your partner’s work and one
3. Vary your sentence openings.
For example, you could start a target which will make their work even better.
sentence with an adverb or a verb.
4. Check that your writing is
accurate. Always check your
spelling and use of punctuation.
 Self-Assessment
• Now, read through your own work.
Success Criteria:
1. Include a range of engaging • In the self assessment box, write down two things
adjectives and adverbs.
that you have done well and one target which will
2. Include descriptive techniques,
such as similes, metaphors and
make your work even better.
personification.
3. Vary your sentence openings.
For example, you could start a
sentence with an adverb or a verb.
4. Check that your writing is
accurate. Always check your
spelling and use of punctuation.
 Soar to Success!
Write a few sentences now focusing on your target given to
you by your partner in green pen.
 Share your work!
• Share your work with the rest of the class.

• They need to guess what you are describing.

• Can you identify the different techniques they are using? Who can spot the
most?