Why is it important? Write down three things that the intro
paragraph should include.
Slide 3
You have been writing intro paragraphs since second grade. You
have been writing intro paragraphs in this class throughout the
school year. So why focus on intro paragraphs?
Slide 4
In most cases, the intro simply takes up space and provides a
place in your paper to house your thesis statement.
Slide 5
When, in fact, the intro paragraph is a vital part of your
essay. Why should a reader continue reading if there is not hook or
pertinent information? I am your teacher, and I am obligated to
read your essay; in the real world, no one is obligated to read
your essay.
Slide 6
By definition, an essay is meant to explain or persuade. If you
have something genuine and important to say, you need to make
certain that the reader is compelled to read. By definition, an
essay is meant to explain or persuade. If you have something
genuine and important to say, you need to make certain that the
reader is compelled to read.
Slide 7
Lets create a metaphor An intro paragraph is like body
building. We want the intro paragraph to have a huge presence but
not by adding just bulk but real musculature. In other words, good
essay development strengthens, not merely fills out.
Slide 8
x
Slide 9
This is the intro paragraph that you want.
Slide 10
Thesis: The U.S. needs to revise and strengthen its laws in
regard to DUI infractions. Explain what DUI means/includes DUI
deaths increasing each year Most DUI arrests are repeat offenders
Laws are state specific and inconsistent Notice that my comments
lead into the specific point of the thesis. The comments are not
random BULK to take up space. they are strong and well-defined
Slide 11
Consider these points Do not develop specific points that you
plan to argue or expand in the essay, but you may reference them.
What does the reader need to know or understand in order to fully
appreciate your essay? Explain terms that the reader may not be
familiar with. Attention-getting device. Build interest in the
subject. Create tone through diction and style. Lead into the
thesis. Do not develop specific points that you plan to argue or
expand in the essay, but you may reference them. What does the
reader need to know or understand in order to fully appreciate your
essay? Explain terms that the reader may not be familiar with.
Attention-getting device. Build interest in the subject. Create
tone through diction and style. Lead into the thesis.
Slide 12
You do it Choose a topic from the list and collaborate with
your group. In addition to the thesis statement, list at least 3
pieces of information that should go in the intro paragraph of the
essay. The thesis statement gives you and indication of the content
and purpose of the essay. Of course, you will need to use your
imagination here. Choose a topic from the list and collaborate with
your group. In addition to the thesis statement, list at least 3
pieces of information that should go in the intro paragraph of the
essay. The thesis statement gives you and indication of the content
and purpose of the essay. Of course, you will need to use your
imagination here.
Slide 13
Switch and review Can you improve this?
Slide 14
Switch Add an attention getting device if there is none. Use
page 10 in your style book.
Slide 15
In a complete sentence, tell me the value of a strong
introductory paragraph.
Slide 16
Write your own intro paragraph Complete the page in your
packet. You will be able to use this page on Wednesday. Write on
composition paper first so that you can revise. You may use only
your packet on Wednesday. Print new blank pages from my web site if
you need them. Start now.
Slide 17
Choose a topic from the choices given to you and collaborate
with your group. In addition to the thesis statement, list at least
4 pieces of information that should go in the intro paragraph of
the essay. The thesis statement gives you and indication of the
content and purpose of the essay. Of course, you will need to use
your imagination here. Example