1. The Opening Paragraph Thesis Statements

2. The Opening Paragraph First you need to recognize whether your research paper is argumentative or expository. Then you need to realize the different goals of the two different types of papers. Argumentative: To defend a position. Expository: To inform your audience.

3. Opening Paragraph An opening paragraph can begin in several ways. A relevant quote or excerpt from literature. An anecdote or brief story that gives your argument or insight credibility. Also, here are some questions to consider while composing your opening paragraph.

4. Opening Paragraph * Who is the audience for your writing? * Do you think your audience is interested in the topic? Why or why not? * Why should your audience be interested in this topic? * What does your audience already know about this topic?

5. Things to Consider (con’t) * What does your audience need to know about this topic? * What experiences has your audience had that would influence them on this topic? * What do you hope the audience will gain from your text?

6. The Opening Paragraph Expository Research Papers should remain unbiased and objective. The content of the opening paragraph should serve as an introduction (background/historical info) to your topic. Argumentative Research Papers should contain a position or stance regarding an issue, or subjective. The introduction should also provide background info; however, this information can have a personal slant.

7. Opening Paragraph The Opening Paragraph, after a brief history or introduction is given, should then contain the Thesis Statement. The Thesis Statement is a clear outline of your stance (if argumentative) and/or all topics (subtopics) that will be covered within the body of the paper.

8. Thesis Statement Example of an expository (explanatory) thesis statement: The life of the typical college student is characterized by time spent studying, attending class, and socializing with peers. The paper that follows should: * explain how students spend their time studying, attending class, and socializing with peers. Credit: http://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/54 5/1/

9. Thesis Statement Example of an argumentative thesis statement: High school graduates should be required to take a year off to pursue community service projects before entering college in order to increase their maturity and global awareness. The paper that follows should: * present an argument and give evidence to support the claim that students should pursue community projects before entering college.