Descri Ptive Writing Planning

Sometimes, when given a source to write creatively about, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article we will be looking at how we can lower this fear and get the creative juices flowing in exam conditions!

Why plan?

First consider: why is it important to plan? Come up with 5 reasons!

1.)

2.)

3.)

4.)

5.)

Some ideas that I had are...

1.) It gives you a clear focus

2.) It avoids `writers block` in timed conditions

3.) You can ensure you are using techniques and devices

4.) You can achieve a clear structure that the examiner will see

5.) It gives you that all important thinking time!

How can we plan?

For this article, I will be focusing on the image based question where you will be given an image to describe or inspire you. To help you, I have written out a step by step guide that you can try at home! You can try this as many times as you like.

Step one: Find an image on google. For example, a castle.

Step two: Use a thought bubble to write down your initial thoughts. Use short words and phrases to save time.

Step three: Write down three ambitious words you could use to describe it. Ambitious words are interesting vocabulary. For instance, what could you use instead of `big`?

Step four: Time to include some language devices! Make a list of three devices (for example, metaphor, personification and alliteration) and write an example for each.

And there you have it! You have written down your thoughts, some interesting vocabulary and a range of language devices!

Structure

If your writing is narrative (like a story) rather than descri ptive, you may wish to write a short sentence for your start, middle and end to keep you focused.

In order to plan a structure for descri ptive writing, consider what elements of the picture you are going to focus on and in what order. For example:

1.) The size of the castle

2.) Zooming in on the windows

3.) Zooming in even further to the texture of the walls.

Your turn!

Now have a go at writing your descri ption and include these elements.

Remember to enjoy the process and free your creativity!