Descriptive Writing: Drawing conclusions

In my book, This Won’t Hurt a Bit!, I have a hands on exercise which literally illustrates the difference between descriptive writing and empty writing. I write a lousy paragraph about Victoria, and state that it is “nice”. I then write a paragraph with images of the water taxis scuttling like insects, the ivy covered Empress Hotel, cast iron lamp posts… and then I ask the student to DRAW each of the paragraphs. What happens?

The empty paragraph results in an empty box and quizzical looks from the student, while the one with visual and sound imagery creates a drawing. Students can do this exercise with each other. For those who are visual learners, this creative activity is particularly useful. Try it! Teachers will love it!