Topic 4 of 6 · Form 1
Narrative and descriptive writing
Paragraphing, correct tense, punctuation of direct speech, varied sentence openings, and avoiding clichés.
Notes for this topic 1 file, in order
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Narrative writing
- Plan: a clear beginning, development, climax and resolution.
- Hook the reader with an engaging opening (dialogue, action, intrigue).
- Develop characters through actions, speech and thoughts.
- Show rather than tell: "Her hands trembled as she opened the letter" rather than "She was nervous".
- Control pace with sentence length; build tension before the climax.
- End with a resolution, a twist or a reflection.
Descriptive writing
- Focus on creating atmosphere and a vivid picture rather than events.
- Use the five senses, precise vocabulary, imagery (similes, metaphors, personification) and varied sentences.
- Organise by space (moving through a scene), time (dawn to dusk) or contrast.
Worked example: Improve "The market was busy."
Before the sun had cleared the rooftops, the market was already humming: vendors called out prices, tomatoes glowed in neat pyramids and the smell of roasting maize drifted between the stalls.
Accuracy and style
Paragraphing, correct tense, punctuation of direct speech, varied sentence openings, and avoiding clichés.
Exam tip: Spend five minutes planning – a clear structure is the difference between a good and an excellent composition.
Check yourself
- What does "show, don't tell" mean?
- Name two ways to organise descriptive writing.
- How can sentence length create tension?
Show answers
- Reveal feelings and ideas through actions, details and speech instead of stating them directly.
- Any two: by space, by time, by contrast, by the senses.
- Short sentences speed up the pace and create suspense.
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