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Language3 min read
Using describing words to make longer sentences!
Describing words add detail and colour to language — and they're a great way to help children build longer, richer sentences.
Describing words add detail and colour to language — and they're a great way to help children build longer, richer sentences. Moving from 'a dog' to 'a big, fluffy, brown dog' is a wonderful leap in expression.
Grow those sentences
- Describe by colour, size, shape, texture and number.
- Play 'I spy' using describing words instead of letters.
- Add one detail at a time: 'a ball' → 'a red ball' → 'a big red bouncy ball'.
- Talk about how things look, feel, sound, smell and taste.
- Model the longer sentence and let your child copy it.
💡 Tip
Expansion is key: take what your child says and add a little more. They hear the richer version and gradually make it their own.
Describing words help children paint a clearer picture for their listener — a skill that supports storytelling, writing and conversation.
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