* Descriptive writing paints a picture with words. It uses details to help the reader see, hear, smell, taste, and feel what's being described. It's like showing someone a photograph.
* Illustrative writing tells a story with examples. It uses specific examples to explain a point or idea. It's like showing someone a movie with scenes that prove something.
Here's an example:
Descriptive:
The old, weathered barn stood at the edge of the field, its paint peeling and its roof sagging under the weight of years. The air was thick with the smell of hay and manure, and the sound of crickets chirped a constant chorus.
Illustrative:
The old barn was a testament to the farm's history. Its creaky doors had seen generations of farm animals pass through, and its wooden beams had weathered countless storms. For example, the barn housed the family's prize-winning Clydesdale horses for years, and the hayloft was filled with stories of family gatherings and laughter.
In short: Descriptive writing focuses on vivid details, while illustrative writing uses examples to make a point.