Johnson County Community College
English 106 - Introduction to Writing -- Paragraph 1 - Writing a Descriptive Paragraph
 

Write a paragraph of ten to fifteen sentences that describes in detail a photograph or painting you have found from the Internet.   In addition to describing the colors, shapes, etc. in the work, you also need to make use of sensory details such as sounds, smell, taste and feelings.  So, how do you do this when you are describing a picture.  It is challenging, but it can be done!

Let's say you find a picture of a kitchen: 
Edouard Vuillard. La Cuisinière (The Cook) from the portfolio
 Paysages et Intérieurs (Landscapes and Interiors). 1899.
   Lithograph, printed in color, 14 1/8 x 10 7/8".
   The Museum of Modern Art, New York.
   Gift of Mrs. Bliss Parkinson
Now, not only would you describe the colors and shapes in the painting, but you would also imagine what it would be like to be in this kitchen yourself.  What would the smells be like?  Could you taste any of the food that is on the counter?  How would you feel?  Would you feel comfortable with this older woman or would you feel as if she was talking too much and taking up too much of your time?

Good essays will be written clearly with no punctuation, grammar or spelling errors.  They will also contain much concrete detail that allows readers to picture what you're describing in their minds.

With my approval, you may choose any picture from the Internet, but you might think about starting with these sites first.  Don't spend too long looking for a picture, however.  Remember, this is a writing class.  The sooner you find a photograph or painting that allows you to imagine yourself in the picture, the sooner you can begin writing.
 

 MOMA Paris Paintings 
 Photos of British Monarchy's Palaces and Estates 
 The WebMuseum 
 Route 66 Photos 
 More Rt. 66 Photos This takes a few minutes to load, but it's worth it!
 Ballparks 
 Some Nature Photos 
 Yahoo's Art Links 
 Yahoo's Photography Links 
Due Dates:

Friday, Sep. 5: Peer Review Workshop for Descriptive Paragraph.  Bring a complete draft of the paragraph.
Monday, Sep. 8:  Descriptive Pargaraph DueMake a copy of this paragraph for you pre-portfolio.  Do not put your name on the paragraph itself.  Use a cover sheet.