We have been studying the three basic types of paragraphs in writing: narrative, descriptive, and expository. Here is a review of each:

NARRATIVE: The narrative paragraph tells a story, just like a narrator in a play.

DESCRIPTIVE: The descriptive paragraph paints a picture. It describes a person, place, thing, or idea.

EXPOSITORY: The expository paragraph "exposes" things about a subject. It is also sometimes called an information paragraph because it gives information about a person, place, thing, or idea.

The last two lessons, you've been asked to write an expository paragraph and a narrative paragraph from the vantage point of the sea captain. 

Now, using the same information, write a descriptive paragraph that tells what Amsterdam was like from the viewpoint of the sea captain. 

Sometimes a descriptive paragraph is also called a spatial paragraph. That is because its purpose is to paint a picture for the reader. Try to cover every detail from the ground or water of the sea to the sky. Fill in everything much like an artist uses a brush to paint in the surroundings. 

Appeal to the senses. When the reader has read your paragraph, he or she should be able to see the sky, smell the sea air, and taste the salt water hanging on the breeze. Make the reader long to feel the wind in his or her hair. Describe the sounds of the harbor so keenly that they come alive as your paragraph unfolds.
 

          The Topic:

          Amsterdam - From a Sea Captain's View
 
 
 

Submitted by:  © Elaine Ernst Schneider  is a freelance writer and a teacher. She has been writing since high school and has published articles, songs, and children's work. Presently, Elaine is a curriculum author for Group Publishing and also writes the City Songs column for www.newcolonist.com ezine.

Feedback: Thanks so much for all your different ideas.  I had almost given up on homeschooling my ninth grade son.  Till I found the great creative writing classes etc.... You are fantastic! Thank you sooooo much. Renee