What I stand for: a descriptive paragraph and check-up
A good descriptive paragraph has four parts. 1. A topic sentence that names the person and the values: My neighbour stands for kindness and honesty. 2. An explanation of what the values mean in daily life. 3. An example: a real thing the person did. 4. An ending that says what you learned. Use linking words to join ideas: and adds, also adds a second point, because gives a reason, so gives a result. Present perfect sentences are very useful here: He has helped many families (active); He has been trusted by many parents (passive). Use for and since to say how long: for six years, since I was seven. Write 60 to 80 words now; if you can, write up to 110. Your book has a model on page 24; yours must be about another person. After writing, use the check-up list below: tick what you can do and write one thing you want to improve.
| Part | What it does | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Topic sentence | names the person and values | My coach stands for hard work and fairness. |
| Explanation | says what it means | He has never chosen a favourite. |
| Example | a real moment | A new swimmer got the same chance. |
| Ending | what I learned | I have become more patient. |
My swimming coach, Mr Fouad, stands for hard work and fairness. He has trained our team for six years, and he has never chosen a favourite. For example, last month a new swimmer was given the same chance as the captain, so everyone felt respected. He has also been trusted by many parents because he always tells the truth. Because of him, I have become a more patient person, and I have also learned that effort matters more than medals.
Write your paragraph: “What my … stands for”. Choose a grandmother, a neighbour, a teacher or a friend. Use the four parts, at least one present perfect active sentence, one present perfect passive sentence and the words because, so and also. Count your words (60 to 80). Read it to a grown-up and ask which part they liked best.