Learn About Imagery Writers use descriptive words and phrases to give readers strong images. These words are called “imagery.” Imagery helps readers “see, taste, smell, feel, and hear” what they are reading. Then readers understand better how characters feel, what a place is like, and so on.
Think About Imagery In “Nadia the Willful,” the writer uses imagery to help readers understand the feelings and emotions that Nadia and her family experience and to show what life was like in the desert. What mental image do you see when you read the sentence below? How does this image help you “see” what is being described?
Practice Together
Analyze Imagery Read these words and phrases from “Nadia the Willful.” What sense do they appeal to? What effect do the underlined words or phrases have on your understanding of the scene and the characters?
| Imagery | Sense | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| “… for Tarik, in his grief and bitterness, had grown quick-tempered and sharp of tongue.” | sight, touch, sound | I understand that Tarik feels upset and because he is hurt, he gets angry easily. |
| “She could see his smile and the light in his eyes.” |
Try It!
With a partner, find three more examples of descriptive phrases in “Nadia the Willful.” Create an Imagery Chart to record examples of imagery in the selection. Discuss how the images help you understand and relate to the text.