Writing an Introduction Notes: Writing an Introduction

Introduction Paragraph The introductory paragraph of any paper should start with a sentence that interests your reader. In a typical essay, that first sentence leads into two or three sentences that provide details about your subject. All of these sentences build up to your thesis statement. Introduction Paragraph

To get your paper off to a great start, you should try to have a first sentence that engages your reader. Think of your first sentence as a hook that draws your reader in. It is your big chance to be so clever that your reader can’t stop. The First Sentence

Ideas for a strong beginning Surprising Fact Humor Quotation Curiosity Definition Anecdote Descriptive Words Figurative language Unknown Fact Imagery Strange or unexpected detail Ideas for a strong beginning

Other ideas… Start with an unknown, interesting fact   Start with something expected, but give it an unexpected twist Say something that seems to contradict what people know Mention something strange about your topic

Use a Quotation A quotation interests the reader because of what it says, or because of who said it. Or both! Use either a wise or funny quotation Use a quotation that relates to your topic Be sure to mention the source of the quotation  Example: "George Washington once said that...”

Introduction Paragraph - 7 sentences. first sentence (s) = hook middle sentences - big, general sentences that build background or tell a little about the argument “Some people argue ….. However, others ….” last sentence - thesis statement Technology is _____________ to our relationships because (reason 1 and reason 2).

Make the reader see the scene or feel like a part of it. Use Descriptive Words Make the reader see the scene or feel like a part of it. Words that relate to the five senses (sight, hearing, touch, taste, and smell) Words that show how something is happening or what its qualities are (adverbs and adjectives) Figurative words that create vivid imagery (simile or metaphor, hyperbole or personification)

Introduction Paragraph first sentence = hook middle sentences - big, general sentences that build background or tell a little about your character - introduces your character to your reader last sentence - thesis First Body Paragraph first sentence uses the descriptive words from your thesis middle sentences tell/describe/give overall information about your hero last sentence sums up who your hero was/is using different words