300 likes | 687 Views
First Impressions. An introduction serves three purposes: To get the readers attention (hook) Tell the reader the structure of the paper To let the reader know what the piece is about (thesis) Before you write your intro: Read and understand the assignment Do your research
E N D
First Impressions • An introduction serves three purposes: • To get the readers attention (hook) • Tell the reader the structure of the paper • To let the reader know what the piece is about (thesis) • Before you write your intro: • Read and understand the assignment • Do your research Consider writing your intro last!
The hook • Open with an attention grabber: • Intriguing example • Quote form a famous person • Interesting statistic • Anecdote • Thought provoking statement • Declarative statement
The thesis statement • One main idea • What you believe or intend to prove • Complete sentence • Concise, clear, specific • Statement not a question World hunger has many causes and effects. Hunger persists in Appalachia because jobs are scarce and farming the steep terrain is rarely profitable.
The stuff in-between • Provides some detail • Previews essay structure • Leads reader from hook to thesis • Use transitions • 2-3 sentences
Reminders • How long should it be? • What it isn’t! • Build reader trust: • Strong vocabulary • Good grammar
What NOT to do • In this paper I will argue that…. • According to Merriam Webster… • In my opinion… • Since the dawn of civilization…
If the Smiths had known that western reining allowed helmets, they would have insisted that Carrie wear one. That may have prevented the head injuries that left Carrie permanently disabled. Helmets in western equestrian competition have long been controversial. Perspectives fall into two main categories: traditionalists (who prefer a cowboy hat), and more safety conscious parents and youth organizations. The AHSA (American Horse Show Association) has yet to weigh in. With increased scrutiny on sports’ safety, helmets in western competitions should be mandatory.