Parents! Students! What are the differences between narrative and descriptive writing? - Presentation

These two writing styles are both forms of creative writing but you need to know the difference as many exams offer a choice between the two styles. You need to know which is which. I'm Cassie, of Hampton English Coaching. I support younger students aged 8 and up with grammar, vocabulary and creative writing. Check out hamptonenglishcoaching.com to discover more cool resources, tips and support which is available.

One tells a full tale, the other zooms in...but which is which?

Image made by Cassie at Hampton English Coaching

Stories need convincing characters. They're the life-blood of narration.

Stories benefit from exciting character dialogue which 'sounds' like each of them. Each character should sound distinctive. Their dialogue should tell us more about their inner thoughts, secrets and true selves.

Descriptive writing does not need a complex structure or to go through 5 narrative stages. Take a look at this description of entering the Ghost Train ride section of a funfair:

‘Wonderingly, I gazed up at the dazzling greens and golds of the colossal Ghost Train ride. Was the sinister figure which loomed above the doorway looking at me? Its eyes had ruby-red irises which gleamed with a demonic glow. Behind it, I could hear screams and shouts. Were the train riders happy, terrified or both? I wasn’t sure. Bravely, I edged forward and bought my skull-shaped ticket.’

I hope this guide fired up your interest! Help yourself to the full e-booklet version for a mere £2. I donate some of the proceeds to local children's charities.

Bye for now!

Cassie at Hampton English Coaching