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An Introduction to the Introduction HOW TO WRITE EFFECTIVELY FROM THE START.

An Introduction to the Introduction

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An Introduction to the Introduction. How to Write effectively from the start. The Hook. Your opening sentence(s) should hook the reader’s attention. a.k.a. grabber/lead sentence Lure in your audience. Do NOT give away the specifics of your topic. Types of Hooks. - PowerPoint PPT Presentation

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Page 1: An Introduction to the Introduction

An Introduction to the Introduction

HOW TO WRITE EFFECTIVELY FROM THE START.

Page 2: An Introduction to the Introduction

The HookYour opening sentence(s) shouldhook the reader’s attention.

a.k.a. grabber/lead sentenceLure in your audience.Do NOT give away the specifics of your

topic.

Page 3: An Introduction to the Introduction

Types of HooksNo “one size fits all” formula.What works best for you, the purpose of

the prompt, and for your audience?

Page 4: An Introduction to the Introduction

Types of Hooks1. Imagine Statement:

“Ask” the reader to picture or imagine a scenario that will be addressed later.

EXAMPLE: Prompt: If you could change one thing about your

school, what would it be? Imagine Statement: Imagine a classroom full of eager

students who are ready to learn and quiet as mice. This could happen if we were only allowed to have free time.

Page 5: An Introduction to the Introduction

Now, You Try…Prompt: Why is it so important to follow

school rules?Hook: ?

OrPrompt: If you were a professional athlete,

which sport would you play and why?Hook: ?

Page 6: An Introduction to the Introduction

Types of Hooks2. Dialogue: Open with dialogue. Must use quotation marks and proper punctuation.EXAMPLE: Prompt: Write about a traumatic eventthat has happened in your life. Dialogue: “Get out of the house, now!” Dad screamed as

the blazing fire rushed toward us.

Page 7: An Introduction to the Introduction

Now, You Try… Prompt: If you could change one thing about

yourself, what would it be and why? Hook: ?

Or Prompt: If you were turned into a teacher for

one day, what would you do? Hook: ?

Page 8: An Introduction to the Introduction

Types of Hooks3. The Riddle: Open with a riddle for the reader to solve. EXAMPLE: Prompt: Write about a time you were influenced by peer pressure. The Riddle: What can sneak up on you, influence you

greatly, and get you into trouble? I will never forget the time my supposed friends pushed me to do something I never should have done.

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Now, You Try… Prompt: Tell about a time when you forgot to do

something very important. Hook: ?

Or Prompt: You have been asked to plan an after-

school program for your school. Think about activities that students might enjoy. Write about this after-school program.

Hook: ?

Page 10: An Introduction to the Introduction

Types of Hooks4. Famous Quote: Begin with a well-known (or not-so-well-known) quote. From a book, song, person, etc.EXAMPLE: Prompt: If you could change one thing about yourself, what

would it be and why? Famous Quote: As Thoreau once said, “It’s not what you

look at that matters. It’s what you see.” When I look in the mirror, I see just another human being, one with a major physical flaw...

Page 11: An Introduction to the Introduction

Now, You Try… Prompt: You just found out that the world will end in

three days. Explain how you would spend the remainder of your time on earth?

Hook: ?OR

Prompt: Everyone has experienced fear at one point in their lives. Think about a time when you were afraid. Explain why this was such a fearful event.

Hook: ?

Page 12: An Introduction to the Introduction

Types of Hooks5. Imagery: (Sensory Language) Description of a place or situation. Appeals to the five senses. Can be purposeful fragments.EXAMPLE: Prompt: Write about the best family vacation ever. Imagery: Sitting silently on the crowded beach, listening

to the echoes of seagulls screeching overhead, I remember breathing in the salty, coconut air.

Page 13: An Introduction to the Introduction

Now, You Try… Prompt: Why should students have free time at

school? Hook: ?

OR Prompt: Whether young or old, everyone has

imagined their own version of an ideal day. Think about what you would do. Explain why this would be your perfect day.

Hook: ?

Page 14: An Introduction to the Introduction

Types of Hooks6. Brief Anecdote: Begin with a quick story or personal experience relating to the topic. Two-three sentences.EXAMPLE: Prompt: There have been many inventions that have impacted the

world. What has been the most beneficial invention? Explain why. Anecdote: When I was in middle school, nothing brought more

happiness to my life than music. Just relaxing on my bed, letting my mind freely flow to the vibes of Bob Marley, I was content. However, this satisfaction would not be fulfilled without the iPod.

Page 15: An Introduction to the Introduction

Now, You Try…Prompt: Who is your hero? Why?Hook: ?

ORPrompt: There have been many inventions

that have impacted the world. What has been the most beneficial invention? Explain why.

Hook: ?

Page 16: An Introduction to the Introduction

Thesis Statement:Reveals the two OR three main pointsof your paper.Usually combined into a single, complex sentence.Usually the last sentence(s) of your introduction.A “road map” for your reader.

1st point = 1st body paragraph2nd point = 2nd body paragraph3rd point = 3rd body paragraph

Page 17: An Introduction to the Introduction

Example Prompt: Eating healthy foods is important.

Explain why you should eat healthy foods. Thesis Statement:

Without a doubt, maintaining a nutritious diet is highly beneficial, increasing energy levels, enhancing one’s physique, and most importantly, preventing potential illness.

1st body paragraph = energy2nd body paragraph = physique3rd body paragraph = illness prevention

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Example (Together) Prompt: Explain the potential benefits of attending college.Brainstorm possible points.What are some potential benefits?What works best for you, your purpose, and your

audience? Thesis Statement: ?

Page 19: An Introduction to the Introduction

Now, You Try…Prompt: If you could be a famous person, who

would you be, and why?Thesis Statement: ?

ORPrompt: What is your favorite means of

transportation? Explain why.Thesis Statement: ?

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Thus, the Introductory Paragraph…

Hook + Thesis Statement = Introductory Paragraph You may need a transitional word, phrase, or

sentence to connect your hook and thesis statement.

Page 21: An Introduction to the Introduction

Now, You Try… Instructions:

1. Select one of the previous prompts.2. From that prompt, choose the most suitable type of hook.3. Lure in the audience. 4. Brainstorm possible points to create a thesis statement.5. Connect your hook and your thesis statement.6. Now, you have written an introductory paragraph.

Page 22: An Introduction to the Introduction

Peer ReviewAfter writing your introductory paragraph, share with

THREE of your peers for constructive feedback.On a sticky note, peers will identify the following:

1. Type of hook used, rating effectiveness on a scale of 1-42. Two-three points of thesis statement, rating effectiveness

on a scale of 1-43. One positive, one negative comment (Be constructive!)4. Sign your name as well.