Descriptive Essays
Free Topic ideas and Essay Plans
Target Exam Papers: A LEVEL, IGCSE, GCSE, and O Level
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Excel in exams by improving your descriptive writing skills
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Formats and Guidelines: Learn the secrets of crafting evocative descriptions with expert formats and guidelines.
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Downloadable PDFs: Full essays can be downloaded PDF (With English Essays Pack)
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Write two contrasting diary entries (300–450 words each): the first by a person setting out on a
long expedition; the second by the same person after arriving home safely. In your writing, create
a sense of adventure and atmosphere.
Setting: The story takes place in the present day. The protagonist is setting out on a trek through the Himalayas, a journey expected to last for several months. The second part of the story occurs upon their return home to a small, peaceful town in the Midwest.
Main Character: Our main character is Alex, a 35-year-old adventurous spirit and professional photographer, always in pursuit of the next thrilling experience and the perfect shot. Alex is driven by curiosity, has a love for nature and possesses an unwavering determination.
Theme: The central theme of the story is the human spirit's endurance and the profound impact of solitude and self-discovery during an adventure.
Tone: The tone will be a mix of excitement and contemplation, capturing the thrill of embarking on a new journey and the reflective nature of coming back home after a long expedition.
Pacing: The pace of the story should match the stages of Alex's journey. The initial stage should be fast-paced and filled with anticipation. As the story progresses, the pace should slow down, reflecting the long days of the trek and the introspective mood upon Alex's return.
Optional: Each diary entry should be between 300-450 words, focusing on the stark contrast between the excitement of beginning a new journey and the introspective mood upon returning home.
Cambridge A level May/June 2020
Write two contrasting diary entries (300–450 words each): the first by a student after being shown
around a new school on the first day of the year; the second by the same student, two years later,
after showing a group of new students around the same school. In your writing, create a sense of
mood and place.
Outline: Diary Entry 1: Student's First Day
I. Introduction
A. Setting: New school, entering through towering gates
B. Feeling of a pounding heart and a mix of excitement and apprehension
II. Exploring the Campus
A. Description of the sprawling campus and maze of buildings
B. Sensory details: Unfamiliar faces and the overwhelming scale of the environment
C. Highlights: Vibrant library, lively classrooms, grand auditorium
III. The Unfamiliar Maze
A. Hallways as a vortex of unfamiliarity
B. Nervousness and uncertainty about fitting in and finding friends
C. Transitioning through the cafeteria, computer lab, and sports field
IV. The Journey Ahead
A. Swirl of anticipation and trepidation upon entering the new classroom
B. Uncertainty mixed with possibilities and challenges
---
Outline: Diary Entry 2: Student's Perspective After Two Years
I. Introduction
A. Setting: Leading newcomers through the school as a confident senior
B. Reflection on the school feeling less daunting and faces becoming familiar
II. Guiding the Newcomers
A. Recalling memories associated with different locations in the school
B. Description of the library, classrooms, and the auditorium
C. Transformation of perception from apprehension to familiarity
III. A Changed Perspective
A. Shift in perception of once-intimidating places like the cafeteria and sports field
B. Symbolism of the cafeteria as a favorite hangout spot filled with laughter and camaraderie
C. Sports field as a symbol of teamwork and resilience
IV. A Walk Down Memory Lane
A. Recognition of personal growth and transformation
B. Observing anxious faces of the newcomers and realizing one's own progress
C. Nostalgia and excitement for the newcomers' journey and anticipation of their own future
Cambridge A level May/June 2020
Write two contrasting diary entries (300–450 words each): the first by a teacher on his first day
of work; and the second by the same teacher on his last day of work before retirement. In your
writing, create a sense of outlook and mood.
Outline:
Diary Entry 1: First Day of Work
I. Introduction
A. Description of the setting and anticipation
B. Personal feelings and responsibility
II. Main Body
A. The transition from student to teacher
B. The first class experience: excitement, anxiety, and fulfillment
C. The challenges faced and lessons learned
III. Conclusion
A. Reflection on the day and hopes for the journey ahead
---
Diary Entry 2: Last Day before Retirement
I. Introduction
A. Final day of teaching and mixed emotions
B. Reflecting on the changes over the years
II. Main Body
A. Consistent rewards of teaching: witnessing learning and growth
B. Reflection on interactions with students over the years
C. The challenges and rewards of the teaching profession
III. Conclusion
A. The transition into retirement: feelings of relief, emptiness, and uncertainty
B. Anticipation for a quieter life and personal time
C. Final thoughts on leaving the profession and legacy behind
Cambridge A level October/November 2019
Write two contrasting diary entries (300–450 words each): the first by a young teacher after her
first day of work; and the second by a student in her class. In your writing, create a sense of the
writers’ differing attitudes and perspectives.
Setting: The setting is an urban middle school in present day. The school is a bustling center of activity with a diverse student body, a well-stocked library, a busy cafeteria, and a variety of classrooms.
Main Characters:
Miss Johnson, a 23-year-old fresh graduate who has just started her teaching career. She is anxious, eager to prove herself, but also deeply passionate about teaching and making a difference.
Sammy, a 13-year-old student, who is slightly cynical, intelligent, and observant. He's experienced enough teachers to be skeptical of the new, young one, but is also open to be proven wrong.
Theme: The central theme revolves around the contrast between the idealism of a new teacher and the skepticism of an experienced student, with the school environment as the backdrop.
Tone: The tone of Miss Johnson's entry should be hopeful and slightly anxious, filled with idealism and the desire to make a difference. Sammy's entry should be more skeptical and humorous, reflecting his perspective as an experienced student.
Pacing: The pacing should reflect the different perspectives - fast and filled with new experiences for Miss Johnson; slower and more observant for Sammy.
Optional: Each diary entry should be between 300-450 words and focus on the characters' experiences of the same day from their contrasting perspectives.
Cambridge A level May/June 2018
Write two contrasting pieces (300–450 words each) about a music venue: the first before the
audience has arrived, and the second during the performance. In your writing, focus on the sound,
colour and atmosphere in the music venue.
Setting: The story takes place in a popular music venue in downtown Chicago, in the present day. Known for its eclectic lineup of artists and vibrant atmosphere, it's a place that thrums with life and music.
Main Character: Mark, a 35-year-old sound engineer who's been in the music industry for a decade. He's passionate about his work and finds solace in the organized chaos of the venue. He's meticulous, observant, and deeply in tune with the sounds and rhythms that fill the venue.
Theme: The story revolves around the transformation of the venue, from its quiet, anticipatory state before the audience arrives, to its lively, electric atmosphere during the performance.
Tone: The tone should transition smoothly from calm and introspective to energetic and vibrant, mirroring the change in the venue's atmosphere.
Pacing: The story should start slow, matching the quiet of the venue before the audience arrives. As the performance begins and the audience's energy fills the space, the pacing should pick up, reflecting the venue's pulsating energy.
Optional: Each piece should be about 300-450 words, focusing on the contrast between the venue's atmosphere before and during the performance.
Cambridge A level October/November 2018
Write two contrasting pieces (300–450 words each): the first from the perspective of a shop
assistant selling a valuable item, and the second from the perspective of the customer. In your
writing, create a sense of outlook and mood.
Setting: The story unfolds in a high-end antique shop in New York City in the present day. The shop is well-known for its unique, valuable items, each with its own fascinating history.
Main Characters: Our first main character is Jack, a 45-year-old antique shop assistant who has spent over two decades in the business. Jack is knowledgeable, charming, and has a knack for storytelling that brings each item in the shop to life. Our second character is Emma, a 38-year-old successful businesswoman who appreciates the finer things in life and is on a hunt for a unique piece to add to her collection.
Theme: The central theme of the story is the differing perspectives of two individuals involved in the same transaction, highlighting the different values and emotions attached to material possessions.
Tone: The tone should be observant and reflective, allowing the reader to dive deep into the psyche of both the shop assistant and the customer.
Pacing: The pacing should be slow and deliberate, echoing the careful contemplation that goes into selling and buying a valuable item. The focus should be on the details, the emotions, and the internal monologue of the characters.
Optional: Each piece should be between 300-450 words, highlighting the contrasting perspectives and emotions of the shop assistant and the customer.
Cambridge A level October/November 2018
Descriptive Essays
Target Exam Papers: A LEVEL, IGCSE, GCSE, and O Level students
-
Comprehensive Resources: Our platform offers a wide range of resources to enhance your descriptive writing skills:
-
Formats and Guidelines: Learn the secrets of crafting evocative descriptions with expertly curated formats and guidelines.
-
Downloadable PDFs: Access a variety of downloadable PDFs to support your descriptive writing journey.
-
Exciting Essay Topics: Discover diverse and thrilling essay topic
-
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Achieve Excellence: Excel in exams by improving your descriptive writing skills
English Essays Pack
✅Master the art of essay writing and achieve top grades in your exam
✅High-quality model essays showcase exemplary writing skills, providing inspiration and guidance for crafting outstanding essays
✅Packed with 500 frequently examined questions and essays
✅Covers narrative, argumentative, and descriptive essays, directed writing, letters and speech.
✅Perfect for A Level, GCSE, IGCSE, and O Level students
✅Equipped with practical tips and vocabulary words to enhance your writing, unlock the secrets to academic excellence and elevate your success today!
✅Accessible and convenient! All essays downloadable as PDF
Write two contrasting diary entries (300–450 words each): the first by a person setting out on a
long expedition; the second by the same person after arriving home safely. In your writing, create
a sense of adventure and atmosphere.
Setting: The story takes place in the present day. The protagonist is setting out on a trek through the Himalayas, a journey expected to last for several months. The second part of the story occurs upon their return home to a small, peaceful town in the Midwest.
Main Character: Our main character is Alex, a 35-year-old adventurous spirit and professional photographer, always in pursuit of the next thrilling experience and the perfect shot. Alex is driven by curiosity, has a love for nature and possesses an unwavering determination.
Theme: The central theme of the story is the human spirit's endurance and the profound impact of solitude and self-discovery during an adventure.
Tone: The tone will be a mix of excitement and contemplation, capturing the thrill of embarking on a new journey and the reflective nature of coming back home after a long expedition.
Pacing: The pace of the story should match the stages of Alex's journey. The initial stage should be fast-paced and filled with anticipation. As the story progresses, the pace should slow down, reflecting the long days of the trek and the introspective mood upon Alex's return.
Optional: Each diary entry should be between 300-450 words, focusing on the stark contrast between the excitement of beginning a new journey and the introspective mood upon returning home.
Cambridge A level May/June 2020
Write two contrasting diary entries (300–450 words each): the first by a student after being shown
around a new school on the first day of the year; the second by the same student, two years later,
after showing a group of new students around the same school. In your writing, create a sense of
mood and place.
Outline: Diary Entry 1: Student's First Day
I. Introduction
A. Setting: New school, entering through towering gates
B. Feeling of a pounding heart and a mix of excitement and apprehension
II. Exploring the Campus
A. Description of the sprawling campus and maze of buildings
B. Sensory details: Unfamiliar faces and the overwhelming scale of the environment
C. Highlights: Vibrant library, lively classrooms, grand auditorium
III. The Unfamiliar Maze
A. Hallways as a vortex of unfamiliarity
B. Nervousness and uncertainty about fitting in and finding friends
C. Transitioning through the cafeteria, computer lab, and sports field
IV. The Journey Ahead
A. Swirl of anticipation and trepidation upon entering the new classroom
B. Uncertainty mixed with possibilities and challenges
---
Outline: Diary Entry 2: Student's Perspective After Two Years
I. Introduction
A. Setting: Leading newcomers through the school as a confident senior
B. Reflection on the school feeling less daunting and faces becoming familiar
II. Guiding the Newcomers
A. Recalling memories associated with different locations in the school
B. Description of the library, classrooms, and the auditorium
C. Transformation of perception from apprehension to familiarity
III. A Changed Perspective
A. Shift in perception of once-intimidating places like the cafeteria and sports field
B. Symbolism of the cafeteria as a favorite hangout spot filled with laughter and camaraderie
C. Sports field as a symbol of teamwork and resilience
IV. A Walk Down Memory Lane
A. Recognition of personal growth and transformation
B. Observing anxious faces of the newcomers and realizing one's own progress
C. Nostalgia and excitement for the newcomers' journey and anticipation of their own future
Cambridge A level May/June 2020
Write two contrasting diary entries (300–450 words each): the first by a teacher on his first day
of work; and the second by the same teacher on his last day of work before retirement. In your
writing, create a sense of outlook and mood.
Outline:
Diary Entry 1: First Day of Work
I. Introduction
A. Description of the setting and anticipation
B. Personal feelings and responsibility
II. Main Body
A. The transition from student to teacher
B. The first class experience: excitement, anxiety, and fulfillment
C. The challenges faced and lessons learned
III. Conclusion
A. Reflection on the day and hopes for the journey ahead
---
Diary Entry 2: Last Day before Retirement
I. Introduction
A. Final day of teaching and mixed emotions
B. Reflecting on the changes over the years
II. Main Body
A. Consistent rewards of teaching: witnessing learning and growth
B. Reflection on interactions with students over the years
C. The challenges and rewards of the teaching profession
III. Conclusion
A. The transition into retirement: feelings of relief, emptiness, and uncertainty
B. Anticipation for a quieter life and personal time
C. Final thoughts on leaving the profession and legacy behind
Cambridge A level October/November 2019
Write two contrasting diary entries (300–450 words each): the first by a young teacher after her
first day of work; and the second by a student in her class. In your writing, create a sense of the
writers’ differing attitudes and perspectives.
Setting: The setting is an urban middle school in present day. The school is a bustling center of activity with a diverse student body, a well-stocked library, a busy cafeteria, and a variety of classrooms.
Main Characters:
Miss Johnson, a 23-year-old fresh graduate who has just started her teaching career. She is anxious, eager to prove herself, but also deeply passionate about teaching and making a difference.
Sammy, a 13-year-old student, who is slightly cynical, intelligent, and observant. He's experienced enough teachers to be skeptical of the new, young one, but is also open to be proven wrong.
Theme: The central theme revolves around the contrast between the idealism of a new teacher and the skepticism of an experienced student, with the school environment as the backdrop.
Tone: The tone of Miss Johnson's entry should be hopeful and slightly anxious, filled with idealism and the desire to make a difference. Sammy's entry should be more skeptical and humorous, reflecting his perspective as an experienced student.
Pacing: The pacing should reflect the different perspectives - fast and filled with new experiences for Miss Johnson; slower and more observant for Sammy.
Optional: Each diary entry should be between 300-450 words and focus on the characters' experiences of the same day from their contrasting perspectives.
Cambridge A level May/June 2018
Write two contrasting pieces (300–450 words each) about a music venue: the first before the
audience has arrived, and the second during the performance. In your writing, focus on the sound,
colour and atmosphere in the music venue.
Setting: The story takes place in a popular music venue in downtown Chicago, in the present day. Known for its eclectic lineup of artists and vibrant atmosphere, it's a place that thrums with life and music.
Main Character: Mark, a 35-year-old sound engineer who's been in the music industry for a decade. He's passionate about his work and finds solace in the organized chaos of the venue. He's meticulous, observant, and deeply in tune with the sounds and rhythms that fill the venue.
Theme: The story revolves around the transformation of the venue, from its quiet, anticipatory state before the audience arrives, to its lively, electric atmosphere during the performance.
Tone: The tone should transition smoothly from calm and introspective to energetic and vibrant, mirroring the change in the venue's atmosphere.
Pacing: The story should start slow, matching the quiet of the venue before the audience arrives. As the performance begins and the audience's energy fills the space, the pacing should pick up, reflecting the venue's pulsating energy.
Optional: Each piece should be about 300-450 words, focusing on the contrast between the venue's atmosphere before and during the performance.
Cambridge A level October/November 2018
Write two contrasting pieces (300–450 words each): the first from the perspective of a shop
assistant selling a valuable item, and the second from the perspective of the customer. In your
writing, create a sense of outlook and mood.
Setting: The story unfolds in a high-end antique shop in New York City in the present day. The shop is well-known for its unique, valuable items, each with its own fascinating history.
Main Characters: Our first main character is Jack, a 45-year-old antique shop assistant who has spent over two decades in the business. Jack is knowledgeable, charming, and has a knack for storytelling that brings each item in the shop to life. Our second character is Emma, a 38-year-old successful businesswoman who appreciates the finer things in life and is on a hunt for a unique piece to add to her collection.
Theme: The central theme of the story is the differing perspectives of two individuals involved in the same transaction, highlighting the different values and emotions attached to material possessions.
Tone: The tone should be observant and reflective, allowing the reader to dive deep into the psyche of both the shop assistant and the customer.
Pacing: The pacing should be slow and deliberate, echoing the careful contemplation that goes into selling and buying a valuable item. The focus should be on the details, the emotions, and the internal monologue of the characters.
Optional: Each piece should be between 300-450 words, highlighting the contrasting perspectives and emotions of the shop assistant and the customer.
Cambridge A level October/November 2018
English Essays Pack
✅Master the art of essay writing and achieve top grades in your exam
✅High-quality model essays showcase exemplary writing skills, providing inspiration and guidance for crafting outstanding essays
✅Packed with 500 frequently examined questions and essays
✅Covers narrative, argumentative, and descriptive essays, directed writing, letters and speech.
✅Perfect for A Level, GCSE, IGCSE, and O Level students
✅Equipped with practical tips and vocabulary words to enhance your writing, unlock the secrets to academic excellence and elevate your success today!
✅Accessible and convenient! All essays downloadable as PDF