Podcast
Questions and Answers
What is Dana's goal when she wants to tell Eric about her treat?
What is Dana's goal when she wants to tell Eric about her treat?
Why does Dana need to use specific words to describe her treat?
Why does Dana need to use specific words to describe her treat?
What is an example of a general noun that can be made more specific?
What is an example of a general noun that can be made more specific?
What is the purpose of using modifiers in writing?
What is the purpose of using modifiers in writing?
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What type of modifier is 'fresh' in the phrase 'fresh kiwi'?
What type of modifier is 'fresh' in the phrase 'fresh kiwi'?
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What is the result of using specific and precise word choice in writing?
What is the result of using specific and precise word choice in writing?
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What type of word is 'truck' in the sentence 'I want to describe my dad's new truck'?
What type of word is 'truck' in the sentence 'I want to describe my dad's new truck'?
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What is the purpose of using modifiers in writing?
What is the purpose of using modifiers in writing?
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Why is it important to use precise and active verbs in writing?
Why is it important to use precise and active verbs in writing?
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What is the purpose of using similes in writing?
What is the purpose of using similes in writing?
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What is an example of a clichéd simile?
What is an example of a clichéd simile?
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Why should you avoid using clichéd similes in your writing?
Why should you avoid using clichéd similes in your writing?
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What is the benefit of using original and fresh similes in your writing?
What is the benefit of using original and fresh similes in your writing?
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What is the purpose of taking the time to think about the action or state of being you want to show in your writing?
What is the purpose of taking the time to think about the action or state of being you want to show in your writing?
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Why is it important to use hyphens when using two words to modify a noun?
Why is it important to use hyphens when using two words to modify a noun?
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Study Notes
Using Specific Language in Writing
- Dana's mom got her a treat, but Eric didn't understand how yummy it was because she didn't use specific words to describe it.
- Using specific words to describe something helps the reader understand what you're talking about.
- Examples of specific words: 'chocolate-chip ice cream,' 'creamy vanilla,' 'fresh kiwi,' and 'toasted pecans.'
Nouns
- A noun is a person, place, or thing.
- Using specific nouns helps the reader understand what you're talking about.
- Examples: 'I like fruit' vs. 'I like oranges' - the second sentence gives a clearer image.
Modifiers
- Modifiers help show the reader what you mean by adding more information to a noun.
- Types of modifiers: adjectives, adverbs, and prepositional phrases.
- Examples: 'brand-new, tuxedo-black, short-bed Ford F150' (using adjectives and prepositional phrases to describe a truck).
- Hyphenate two words when used to modify a noun (e.g., 'brand-new').
Verbs
- Using precise, active verbs helps the reader understand what you're trying to say.
- Examples: 'walking' vs. 'limping' vs. 'dancing' - each verb gives a different image.
- Take time to think about the action or state of being you want to show and choose the right verb.
Similes
- Similes are simple comparisons using 'like' or 'as'.
- Examples: 'As beautiful as new puppies in springtime' or 'As beautiful as my baby brother's eyes'.
- Try to create original and fresh similes to avoid clichés.
- Similes can help clearly show what you're writing about.
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Description
Help Dana describe her yummy treat to Eric using specific words. Learn how to use descriptive language to paint a vivid picture. Improve your communication skills and make your language more engaging.
