Using sensory language to write effective descriptions
I can write an effective description using precise sensory imagery.
Using sensory language to write effective descriptions
I can write an effective description using precise sensory imagery.
These resources will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Sensory language can be used to enhance the atmosphere of a description.
- Effective sensory language uses a variety of senses rather than focusing predominantly on just one.
- Effective sensory language might also use precise vocabulary in order to evoke an atmosphere.
- Using language devices such as personification and onomatopoeia can also enhance sensory language.
Keywords
Sensory language - descriptive language that engages the reader's five senses: sight, taste, touch, sound, and smell
Atmosphere - the way a place or setting makes you feel; refers to the mood of a piece of writing
Evoke - bring or recall (a feeling, memory, or image) to the conscious mind
Desolation - a state of complete emptiness or destruction
Emulate - match or surpass (a person or achievement), typically by imitation
Common misconception
All sensory imagery is equally effective.
The best sensory imagery employs precise language to achieve specific atmospheres.
Equipment
There is a model student paragraph available in the additional materials for this lesson.
Content guidance
- Depiction or discussion of violence or suffering
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
My tongue recoils from the metallic bitterness.
The pungent acidity lingers on the breeze.
The coarse grittiness scraped against my fingertips.