Sensory Explosion
Which sense is most emphasized in Once More to the Lake?
Sight and sound
What literary device compares two unlike things using “like” or “as”?
Simile
Is this statement strong or weak?
“Everyone has memories.”
Weak — too general
What is sensory detail?
Description that appeals to the five senses to create vivid imagery.
What do we call the author’s attitude toward the subject, shown through word choice and style?
Tone.
Choose the stronger hook:
A: “People often think about their childhood.”
B: “The moment I heard the creak of the old swing, I was ten years old again.”
B — it’s sensory, specific, and immediately engaging
Which sense is activated in this sentence?
“The sharp crack of the paddle hitting the water echoed across the lake.”
Sound (auditory imagery)
What device is used when an author describes something in great sensory detail to create a vivid picture?
Imagery
Is this statement strong or weak?
“The smell of frying plantains always pulls me back to my grandmother’s kitchen.”
Strong — specific and sensory.
Which two senses are activated in this sentence?
“The screen door slammed behind me as sunlight flashed across the porch.”
Sound (door slamming) and sight (sunlight flashing)
In memory essays, why is contrast (past vs. present) effective?
It highlights change, growth, and emotional tension.
Identify the problem:
“Memories are important because they help us remember things.”
It’s circular and vague; it doesn’t say anything meaningful.
Which sense is being used in this sentence?
“The cold water stung my ankles as I stepped into the lake.”
Touch (tactile imagery)
Which device is being used here?
“The lake was a mirror reflecting the sky.”
Metaphor (comparing the lake to a mirror without using “like” or “as”).
Is this thesis weak or strong?
“This essay will talk about my memory of going to the park.”
Weak - too broad