A description of a person gives an impression of what that is like or of our relationship with them. It usually includes details about the person’s appearance, interests and personality. Here is a sample description:
My Friend Scott
Scott is a really good friend of mine. We’re both in the same crowd and we all go out quite often, but sometimes just the two of us get together after school.
Scott’s short and well-built. He’s got fair, wavy hair with amazing blue eyes – girls think he’s quite attractive! He works out in the gym three times a week and at weekends he likes to go camping. I sometimes go away for the weekend with him and his family – we have a great time.
He can be a bit bossy, but I don’t mind because he’s such great company. He’s generous and helpful, and I can always count on him to be there when I need him. I think that’s really important in a friend.
Scott is a lot of fun and a great pal. He’s one of my favourite people
(taken from Viewpoints 1 by Elizabeth Grant & Kevin Payne, Burlington Books)
Remember:
- To describe physical appearance, give details in the following order height/built, age, facial characteristics, hair, clothes, moving from the general to the specific.
- To describe personality and behaviour, you could supply examples. If you want to mention negative qualities, you should use mild language (tends to, can occasionally be, etc)
- To describe a person lifestyle and beliefs, you should talk about that person’s habits, interests, daily routine, etc.
- Use a variety of adjectives to make your description more interesting.
- Use a variety of linking words and structures.
writing by c j danoff
