MATERIALS

A descriptive text is a type of text that describes a person, place, animal, object, or other things in detail. The purpose is to help the reader get a clear picture of what is being described. To make the description vivid, the writer often uses the five senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch.

Descriptive text is sometimes confused with report text. Both describe something, but there is a key difference. A descriptive text shows detailed characteristics and often includes the writer’s personal impression or opinion. Meanwhile, a report text gives general information based on facts, research, or scientific observation.

Descriptive text has two main parts:

a. Identification

This part introduces the object being described. It tells the reader what is being talked about. Example: "Borobudur is a Hindu-Buddhist temple located in Magelang, Central Java, Indonesia...."

b. Description

This part explains the details of the object. It may include physical appearance, features, functions, or special characteristics. The writer uses descriptive details to help the reader imagine the object clearly. Example: "Borobudur is famous around the world. It has five square terraces and three circular platforms on top…"

Descriptive text uses several important language features:

a. Specific Object

The object described is usually unique or specific, such as Borobudur Temple, Planet Jupiter, My House, or My Best Friend.

b. Adjectives

Adjectives help give more information about the object. They make the description clearer.

Examples: a beautiful mountain, a tall building, a friendly dog

c. Simple Present Tense

Descriptive texts commonly use the simple present tense because they describe general truths or current characteristics.

Example: The first terraces of Borobudur Temple are square and decorated with sculptures.

d. Action Verbs

These are verbs that show actions or activities, especially when describing how something is built, moves, or behaves.

Examples: run, sleep, visit, was built