Descriptive Writing Using Figurative Language, Colorful Details, and Vivid Verbs

This class is for young writers that are familiar with writing paragraphs or short stories, and are now ready to take their writing up a notch using rich language and specific, creative writing skills. In this 4 week course, writers will focus on developing descriptive writing skills through use of figurative language, colorful details, powerful imagery, & vivid verbs. Students will enjoy this  fun, engaging, interactive writing experiences with big impact. 

In this writing workshop style course, each week, students will have mini lessons to introduce new skills and concepts, having ample time to participate in learning discussions, engaging skills activities, and independent writing time with support and scaffolding. Students will have opportunities to share their thoughts and ideas, as well as their writing samples in a supportive, nurturing classroom environment. 

Each day will include a brief share time for students to get to build relationships. Each day will also include instruction, group discussion, hands on activities, independent work time, and conferencing/supportive direction with the teacher. I will lead class using my engaging and interactive slide show that students will view by sharing my screen. (They will not need to access any additional source.) This slide show not only helps to clearly scaffold students through new skills, but it also helps students to stay focused on each part of the lesson, visually aids in comprehension and understanding, and allows students to happily follow along in class with ease. The slides are an additional tool I use in class to reach different types of learning styles and differentiate instruction.

In week one, students will learn about four different types of figurative language: Similes, Metaphors, Hyperbole, and Personification. Each type of figurative language will be explicitly taught and practiced, while studying the effectiveness of its use in different types of writing. Worksheets will be provided as part of our class activities. 

In week two, students will take a deep dive into studying the use of descriptive language to elevate writing and create strong imagery for the reader. Through the use of instruction, effective examples,  hands on activities, brainstorming, and writing practice, students will learn to use expressive, creative writing skills in their own stories. Worksheets will be provided as part of our class activities. 

In week three, students will learn to put boring, overused verbs to rest by replacing them with vivid verbs and enhancing the story experience for their readers. Fun discussions and hands on activities will enhance this valuable concept and help writers choose verbs that have more impact in their writing. Worksheets will be provided as part of our class activities. 

In week four, we will build upon the use of descriptive language by learning the “Show, Don’t Tell” method of writing. Students will use discussion, brainstorming, and meaningful writing experiences to create powerful imagery and high interest in their stories. 

***This creative writing class is one your students will look forward to coming to each and every day, and leave feeling confident and inspired. This is such a valuable course for young writers to develop new skills and powerful tools to assist them on their creative writing journey!***