Introductory Paragraphs

Introductory paragraphs are where the war is won. It is how you win over your reader from the first words of your paper. They include 3 key components – Hook – Setting Parameters – Thesis Statement

What makes a good hook? What makes a good hook in a pop/rap song? – Grabs your attention. Makes you want to listen. The same is true for hook of your paper. But, Mr. Shea, how do we write good hooks? – Good question. Use: VIVID IMAGERY, DESCRIPTIVE LANGUAGE, and STRONG VERB CHOICES.

Which of these is most compelling? There are many great athletes in this world, but Michael Jordan is the best. Michael Jordan is a hard-nosed competitor who never backs down from a challenge – especially on the court. Soaring through the air, tongue wagging outside of his mouth, Michael Jordan posterizes the defender trying to block him and wins yet another game for his team.

Setting Parameters? Parameters mean “boundaries” or “fences.” You want to narrow your reader’s focus so that he/she agrees with you from the beginning. If our prompt is “Who is the best athlete of all time?” then we must answer the question: – What qualities does the best athlete of all time need to possess?

Qualities? Athleticism Championships/Awards Good team-player Leadership Mental toughness Charisma Influence outside of sports

Set those parameters Athleticism, Mental toughness, Championships Michael Jordan inherited the nickname “Air Jordan” because of his incredible athleticism and jumping ability; he changed the nature of slam-dunks for the modern NBA. He was a tenacious competitor – whether on the court, at the casino, or even on the baseball diamond. Few athletes can say that they have enough Championship Rings for two hands, but Jordan has numerous championships in addition to other accolades.

WHY PARAMETERS ARE IMPORTANT They preview the rest of your paper! EACH PARAMETER BECOMES A BODY PARAGRAPH! They also help getting the reader to think the way you want them to think from the first words of your paper. It’s hard to argue

Thesis Statement A well-defined, statement of opinion, based on fact. – Michael Jordan, with his athleticism, tenacious attitude, and championship titles, is the best athlete of all time.

A Good Intro? Soaring through the air, tongue wagging outside of his mouth, Michael Jordan posterizes the defender trying to block him and wins yet another game for his team. Just another day at work for the best athlete of all time. Michael Jordan inherited the nickname “Air Jordan” because of his incredible athleticism and jumping ability; he changed the nature of slam-dunks for the modern NBA. He was a tenacious competitor – whether on the court, with friends, or even on the baseball diamond. Few athletes can say that they have enough Championship Rings for two hands, but Jordan has numerous championships in addition to other accolades. Michael Jordan, with his athleticism, tenacious attitude, and championship titles, is the best athlete of all time.