Writing a descriptive essay

ISE I & ISE II

You can be asked to write different kinds of descriptive essays when taking a Trinity exam. For ISE I candidates, the
most common ones are those about places and / or events. For ISE II candidates, the essays can be a little bit more
abstract, maybe about a job or lifestyle. But, the structure is mainly the same in all of the cases. A very important
thing descriptions have in common is the use of colourful vocabulary adverbs and adjectives are the key. Lets take
a description of a place as an example.

Zermatt
Zermatt is a resort town in southern Switzerland. Its located at the foot
of the majestic Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the
Alps.
Zermatt is a picturesque village with lovely houses, streets and shops as
well as breathtaking Alpine scenery. It is quiet and clean because no
cars are allowed there. Electric buses and taxis and horse-drawn
carriages are the only forms of public transport.
The village is a world-famous ski resort with skiing all year round.
Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking or riding a cable-car to the top of
the mountain. Bars, restaurants, clubs and casinos provide lively nighttime entertainment.
In summer or winter, Zermatt is unforgettable. Its a great place to
spend a holiday.

The title: it should be the name of

the place, event or idea described.
1st paragraph: name, location and
special or interesting details.
2nd / 3rd paragraphs: Description
with more detail, examples of
things to see and do (when
describing a place). Describe the
atmosphere, the people, the
culture or way of life. Historical
details, sounds, smells and
personal feelings about the place
/ event.
Summary: concluding sentence
and opinion or recommendation.

1. Adjectives word order:

a. opinion adjectives come before fact adjectives: A great movie.
b. fact adjectives appear as follows: size age colour origin material: A great big green car.
2. Adjectives in <-ed> or <-ing>:
a. <-ed> to describe how you feel: Im bored.
b. <-ing> to describe what it is that makes you feel that way: The movie is boring.
3. Adjective or adverb?
a. adjectives: they used to describe nouns. Hes a beautiful singer.
b. adverbs: are used with verbs to say how things are done. He sings beautifully. They also modify
adjectives. He was extremely furious.
4. Extreme adjectives: we can use extreme adjectives to make the description more intense.
Angry furious
Bad awful, terrible
Big huge, gigantic
Clean spotless
Cold freezing
Crowed packed
Dirty filthy
Funny hilarious
Good wonderful
Hot boiling
Hungry starving
Interesting fascinating
Old ancient
Pretty gorgeous
Scary terrifying
Small tiny
Surprising astounding Tired exhausted
Ugly hideous
Wet drench