The Emotion Translator

In this “show, don’t tell” writing exercise, students act as emotion translators by rewriting simple emotional sentences into vivid descriptions. Each line presents a basic feeling, and learners must express it indirectly using action, dialogue, and setting details. The activity develops descriptive fluency, emotional awareness, and narrative craft by encouraging subtle, expressive language use.

Curriculum Skills Explored

English Language Arts – Show, Don’t Tell Writing Technique

English Language Arts – Descriptive and Creative Writing

English Language Arts – Emotional Expression through Action

Writing Process – Style and Revision

This worksheet is part of our Describing Emotions collection.