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5. Description of a place

In a description of a place, you give both general and specific details about a specific location.

Example task:

Write a description of the place where you live and say what you like about it.

A Get ideas

  • Think of a place to write about that you know well.
  • Think of details about the place, e.g. exact location, type of place, what you can do there, what special features it has.
  • Brainstorm for ideas for each detail. 

B Plan

  • Choose the best ideas from your notes.
  • Organize your ideas into a paragraph plan. Group similar ideas together in the same paragraph.

Paragraph I Introduction: name, size, location
Paragraph 2 Description of the place and activities there
Paragraph 3 Places nearby and activities there
Paragraph 4 Conclusion: say what you like about it

C Write 

start with a general introduction

give examples where appropriate

use appropriate linking words and phrases

use the present simple to describe the place

use colourful, descriptive adjectives

use a variety of short and complex sentences

I have lived in St Ouen in north-west Jersey, which is Britain's most southern island, since I was born. St Ouen is a tiny seaside town with beautiful sandy beaches.

What I like. about St Ouen is that it's compact and has a very close community. We help each other out a lot, and visitors find our community spirit impressive. Although it' sa great place for thrilling watersports like sailing and windsurfing, in general, it's a peacefultown.

Whenever I want a lively night out, I go to St Helier in the south of the island. St Helier is a scenictown where you can find numerous trendy clubs and restaurants. 

My hometown of St Ouen has got to be one of the best places in the world to live. It combines exciting activities in a picturesque environment, with a livelier lifestyle availably in nearby St Helier.

for descriptions of a place.

  • Remember, when describing the features of a place, use the present simple as you are talking generally about the place.
  • Use descriptive adjectives to give the reader a clear picture of the place.
  • Focus on two or three main details — don't try to cover everything about the place. 
  • Include ideas that will appeal to a general reader and give them a good idea of the kind of place you're describing.

Preparing to write:

Think about the answers for questions 1-8.

  1. What's the place and where is it?
  2. Is it well known for any reason?
  3. Describe the atmosphere there.
  4. What are the people like?
  5. What can you see and do there during the day? is there any nightlife?
  6. Are there any interesting places nearby? If so, what can you see or do there?
  7. When is the best time to go?
  8. In general, why would you recommend this place?
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