Crafting Effective Introductions and Conclusions

1. Introductions, Conclusions We will have to refer to the EWRT1A rubric in order to see how the keyword cohesive applies to introductions.

2. Introductions, Conclusions Orientation and Framing What does orientation mean?

3. Introductions, Conclusions Introductions introduce the thesis. More concretely, the introduction should introduce all of the key terms in the thesis. Example: Poem title Poem action (probably a verb of saying or representing) Group affected Problem and/or solution

4. Introductions, Conclusions What is framing?

5. Introductions, Conclusions What is framing? Metaphor for a picture frame. Framing should limit the thesis, the historical and geographical scope of the argument, and provide some guidance for interpreting the thesis.

6. Introductions, Conclusions Introductions are not a “hook.” Introductions should not be a summary. Introductions should not refer to a historical or geographical context that is wider than the context for the body of the essay. Never begin an introduction with a question (this will mark your writing as student writing).

7. Introductions, Conclusions Never begin an introduction with a question (this will mark your writing as student writing). Never write “throughout history,” “since the beginning of time,” or “everywhere around the world.” You might have been told that your essay should be like a martini or hourglass. “Throughout history” breaks the stem.

8. Introductions, Conclusions Conclusions provide closure. Conclusions should be thoughtful. Conclusions are not summaries. What does “thoughtful” mean?

9. Introductions, Conclusions Thoughtful: You understand your audience and what your audience needs.

10. Introductions, Conclusions Supplement Conclusions should be oriented towards the future. The conclusion shows that your essay is a contribution towards something that includes your audience that goes beyond your essay.