Writing a descriptive essay ISE I & ISE II

You can be asked to write different kinds of descriptive essays when taking a Trinity exam. For ISE I candidates, the
most common ones are those about places and / or events. For ISE II candidates, the essays can be a little bit more
abstract, maybe about a job or lifestyle. But, the structure is mainly the same in all of the cases. A very important
thing descriptions have in common is the use of colourful vocabulary – adverbs and adjectives are the key. Let’s take
a description of a place as an example.

The title: it should be the name of

Zermatt
the place, event or idea described.

Zermatt is a resort town in southern Switzerland. It’s located at the foot

of the majestic Matterhorn, one of the most famous mountains in the 1st paragraph: name, location and
Alps. special or interesting details.

Zermatt is a picturesque village with lovely houses, streets and shops as

well as breathtaking Alpine scenery. It is quiet and clean because no 2nd / 3rd paragraphs: Description
with more detail, examples of
cars are allowed there. Electric buses and taxis and horse-drawn
things to see and do (when
carriages are the only forms of public transport.
describing a place). Describe the
atmosphere, the people, the
The village is a world-famous ski resort with skiing all year round. culture or way of life. Historical
Visitors can also enjoy hiking, biking or riding a cable-car to the top of details, sounds, smells and
the mountain. Bars, restaurants, clubs and casinos provide lively night- personal feelings about the place
time entertainment. / event.

In summer or winter, Zermatt is unforgettable. It’s a great place to

spend a holiday. Summary: concluding sentence
and opinion or recommendation.

1. Adjectives – word order:

a. opinion adjectives come before fact adjectives: A great movie.
b. fact adjectives appear as follows: size – age – colour – origin – material: A great big green car.

2. Adjectives in <-ed> or <-ing>:

a. <-ed> to describe how you feel: I’m bored.
b. <-ing> to describe what it is that makes you feel that way: The movie is boring.

3. Adjective or adverb?
a. adjectives: they used to describe nouns. He’s a beautiful singer.
b. adverbs: are used with verbs to say how things are done. He sings beautifully. They also modify
adjectives. He was extremely furious.

4. Extreme adjectives: we can use extreme adjectives to make the description more intense.
Angry → furious Bad → awful, terrible Big → huge, gigantic Clean → spotless
Cold → freezing Crowed → packed Dirty → filthy Funny → hilarious
Good → wonderful Hot → boiling Hungry → starving Interesting → fascinating
Old → ancient Pretty → gorgeous Scary → terrifying Small → tiny
Surprising → astounding Tired → exhausted Ugly →hideous Wet → drench