The description pattern

1. The Description Pattern p. 142- 172

2. What is the Description Pattern? To support the thesis, use detailed and specific descriptions. Description creates images, establishes context, evokes moods, and aids in understanding.

3. Purposes for Description To entertain. To share feelings and experiences. To inform the reader on an unfamiliar subject. To create a fresh appreciation for the familiar. To persuade. After discerning purpose, consider your audience.

4. Dominant Impression Focus your description with a single dominant impression (notable quality). Describe only those features that contribute to that impression.

5. Determine the Need for Objective & Subjective Description Objective description includes observable, factual details expressed in unemotional language. Subjective description includes expressive, emotional language to convey feelings and emotions. They can be used separately or together.

6. Use Concrete Sensory Detail Concrete sensory detail creates vivid mental images. It consists of specific words that appeal to the senses (sight, sound, taste, smell, touch).

7. Similes and Metaphors Figurative language helps create vivid descriptions. A simile uses the words like or as to compare two things usually not seen as similar. A metaphor also compares two things that are not usually seen as similar, but without using like or as .

8. Organizing Description Your thesis should state what you are describing and your dominant impression about your subject. When you form your thesis, express your impression in specific language.

9. Arrange Descriptive Details Chronological order is helpful if describing an experience. Spatial order is helpful if describing a place. Progressive order is helpful if you are building up to an impressive ending.