1. Introductory & Conclusion Paragraphs

2. How should we organize our ideas?
Introduction
Body Paragraphs c
Conclusion

3. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 1: The Attention Grabber
Introduces the topic of the thesis (without referring directly to it)
Options include:
Define the idea or concept that is the topic of the paper Example: "The word 'punk' no longer just means a form of alternative music."
Begin with a startling, unusual, or enlightening fact Example: “In 2011, at least 23% of auto collisions involved cell phones; that is 1.3 million crashes.”
Begin with an interesting or dramatic quotation Example: "Nikes 'just do it' slogan has been applied to much more than running shoes.”
Start with a question or challenge (can be misused/used too often). Example: "Why do some people wear a mask when they cut their lawns?"

4. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 2: The Information Adder
Adds information about the attention grabber
Still general and not referring to the thesis
Examples of Attention Grabbers + Info Adders working together:
" In 2011, at least 23% of auto collisions involved cell phones; that is 1.3 million crashes.” This statistic from the National Safety Council highlights the dangerous effects of texting and driving.

5. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 3: Background
Provides more information about background of topic.
Can be anywhere from 2-3 sentences (one is not enough)
Just give a general overview about the issue – the introduction is not the place specifics such as facts or data – unless you are using a fact or statistic in your grabber.

6. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 3: Background
Example:
" In 2011, at least 23% of auto collisions involved cell phones; that is 1.3 million crashes.” This statistic from the National Safety Council highlights the dangerous effects of texting and driving. With the wide use of mobile phones, texting while driving is becoming more commonplace and more dangerous every year. Every day in the United States, more and more people die because a driver looks a way from the road for a “few” seconds to check a text message.

7. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 4: The Transition Sentence
Transitions directly to the thesis, connecting the grabber, information adder, and background directly to the thesis.
Should go from more general idea of the grabber/information adder/background to the specific thesis, or claim, of the paper.

8. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 4: The Transition Sentence
Example:
"In 2011, at least 23% of auto collisions involved cell phones; that is 1.3 million crashes.” This statistic from the National Safety Council highlights the dangerous effects of texting and driving. With the wide use of mobile phones, texting while driving is becoming more commonplace and more dangerous every year. Every day in the United States, more and more people die because a driver looks a way from the road for a “few” seconds to check a text message. Many states have now begun to act on this issue and have created laws banning texting while driving.

9. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 5: The Thesis Statement
Last sentence of intro paragraph
Statement that tells the topic (answers the prompt) and gives your claim and reasons
There are 3 parts to a thesis statement:
1.) Narrowing phrase (AKA Narrower)
2.) Claim
3.) Reasons

10. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 5: The Thesis Statement
The Narrower
A limiting or narrowing phrase that begins with words like “although,” “despite,” or “even though.”
It acknowledges different possibilities that exist, but at the same time, begins to limit the forthcoming argument.
Example: Although many people would argue that laws banning texting while driving would be difficult to enforce,

11. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 5: The Thesis Statement
The heart of the thesis statement!!
Directly uses language from the prompt.
Reveals your opinion using third person POV. “I think” and “I feel” are not allowed in your writing.
Is arguable—other audience members might disagree with your argument, but it’s going to be up to you to provide strong evidence and be convincing.
Example: these laws should be passed in every state

12. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 5: The Thesis Statement
Your reasons or points that link to your.
These will relate to the topic sentences of your body paragraphs.
If you use prongs, they need to be parallel in structure (phrasing and syntax).
Example (umbrella): to protect the lives and safety of the public.
Example: to help prevent accidents, save tax dollars, and protect innocent lives.

13. Formula for Intro Paragraphs Step 5: The Thesis Statement
Although many people would argue that laws banning texting while driving would be difficult to enforce, these laws should be passed in every state to protect the lives and safety of the public. OR Although many people would argue that laws banning texting while driving would be difficult to enforce, these laws should be passed in every state to help prevent accidents, save tax dollars, and protect innocent lives.

14. Sample Intro Paragraph
"In 2011, at least 23% of auto collisions involved cell phones; that is 1.3 million crashes.” This statistic from the National Safety Council highlights the dangerous effects of texting and driving. With the wide use of mobile phones, texting while driving is becoming more commonplace and more dangerous every year. Every day in the United States, more and more people die because a driver looks a way from the road for a “few” seconds to check a text message. Many states have now begun to act on this issue and have created laws banning texting while driving. Although many people would argue that laws banning texting while driving would be difficult to enforce, these laws should be passed in every state to protect the lives and safety of the public.

15. Where does it all go? general Attention Grabber Info Adding Sentence
Background Sentences
specific
Transition Sentence
Thesis statement

16. Conclusion Paragraph Your conclusion paragraph will do the opposite,
Specific
General
Your conclusion paragraph will do the opposite,
going from specific  general

17. Formula for Conclusion Paragraphs
Restate Thesis: Reflects the knowledge learned in the essay using new words.
TWO Implication Sentences: Reflect on how your topic relates to the world, or give your opinion on how your topic is significant to the world, or connect back to your creative opening. It should relate to all people and thus, be universal.
Clincher Sentence: Final sentence of essay that leaves the reader with a powerful thought using strong words.
**TIE BACK TO YOUR GRABBER**

18. Sample Conclusion
Laws banning texting and driving should be mandatory in each state. Texting is so commonplace and prevalent that it is up to lawmakers to ensure the safety of drivers on the road. Many people do not realize that texting while driving can be just as dangerous as driving while drunk. It is up to the lawmakers to help protect that one person out of two hundred who does not make it home each night.