See more on brainstorming.
With classmates or alone, brainstorm specific details on one of the following topics. Include details that appeal to all five senses. Group related details, and write a paragraph or two using them. Begin by stating a main idea that conveys an engaging impression of your topic (not “My grandmother’s house was in Topeka, Kansas” but “My grandmother’s house was my childhood haven”).
| the things in my room | a memorable event | my job |
| my grandmother’s home | an unusual person | a classroom |
| a haunted house | my favorite pet | the cafeteria |
| a favorite possession | a hospital room | an incident |