An Introduction to the Introduction

HOW TO WRITE EFFECTIVELY FROM THE START.

The HookYour opening sentence(s) shouldhook the reader’s attention.

a.k.a. grabber/lead sentenceLure in your audience.Do NOT give away the specifics of your

topic.

Types of HooksNo “one size fits all” formula.What works best for you, the purpose of

the prompt, and for your audience?

Types of Hooks1. Imagine Statement:

“Ask” the reader to picture or imagine a scenario that will be addressed later.

EXAMPLE: Prompt: If you could change one thing about your

school, what would it be? Imagine Statement: Imagine a classroom full of eager

students who are ready to learn and quiet as mice. This could happen if we were only allowed to have free time.

Now, You Try…Prompt: Why is it so important to follow

school rules?Hook: ?

OrPrompt: If you were a professional athlete,

which sport would you play and why?Hook: ?

Types of Hooks2. Dialogue: Open with dialogue. Must use quotation marks and proper punctuation.EXAMPLE: Prompt: Write about a traumatic eventthat has happened in your life. Dialogue: “Get out of the house, now!” Dad screamed as

the blazing fire rushed toward us.

Now, You Try… Prompt: If you could change one thing about

yourself, what would it be and why? Hook: ?

Or Prompt: If you were turned into a teacher for

one day, what would you do? Hook: ?

Types of Hooks3. The Riddle: Open with a riddle for the reader to solve. EXAMPLE: Prompt: Write about a time you were influenced by peer pressure. The Riddle: What can sneak up on you, influence you

greatly, and get you into trouble? I will never forget the time my supposed friends pushed me to do something I never should have done.

Now, You Try… Prompt: Tell about a time when you forgot to do

something very important. Hook: ?

Or Prompt: You have been asked to plan an after-

school program for your school. Think about activities that students might enjoy. Write about this after-school program.

Hook: ?

Types of Hooks4. Famous Quote: Begin with a well-known (or not-so-well-known) quote. From a book, song, person, etc.EXAMPLE: Prompt: If you could change one thing about yourself, what

would it be and why? Famous Quote: As Thoreau once said, “It’s not what you

look at that matters. It’s what you see.” When I look in the mirror, I see just another human being, one with a major physical flaw...

Now, You Try… Prompt: You just found out that the world will end in

three days. Explain how you would spend the remainder of your time on earth?

Hook: ?OR

Prompt: Everyone has experienced fear at one point in their lives. Think about a time when you were afraid. Explain why this was such a fearful event.

Hook: ?

Types of Hooks5. Imagery: (Sensory Language) Description of a place or situation. Appeals to the five senses. Can be purposeful fragments.EXAMPLE: Prompt: Write about the best family vacation ever. Imagery: Sitting silently on the crowded beach, listening

to the echoes of seagulls screeching overhead, I remember breathing in the salty, coconut air.

Now, You Try… Prompt: Why should students have free time at

school? Hook: ?

OR Prompt: Whether young or old, everyone has

imagined their own version of an ideal day. Think about what you would do. Explain why this would be your perfect day.

Hook: ?

Types of Hooks6. Brief Anecdote: Begin with a quick story or personal experience relating to the topic. Two-three sentences.EXAMPLE: Prompt: There have been many inventions that have impacted the

world. What has been the most beneficial invention? Explain why. Anecdote: When I was in middle school, nothing brought more

happiness to my life than music. Just relaxing on my bed, letting my mind freely flow to the vibes of Bob Marley, I was content. However, this satisfaction would not be fulfilled without the iPod.

Now, You Try…Prompt: Who is your hero? Why?Hook: ?

ORPrompt: There have been many inventions

that have impacted the world. What has been the most beneficial invention? Explain why.

Hook: ?

Thesis Statement:Reveals the two OR three main pointsof your paper.Usually combined into a single, complex sentence.Usually the last sentence(s) of your introduction.A “road map” for your reader.

1st point = 1st body paragraph2nd point = 2nd body paragraph3rd point = 3rd body paragraph

Example Prompt: Eating healthy foods is important.

Explain why you should eat healthy foods. Thesis Statement:

Without a doubt, maintaining a nutritious diet is highly beneficial, increasing energy levels, enhancing one’s physique, and most importantly, preventing potential illness.

1st body paragraph = energy2nd body paragraph = physique3rd body paragraph = illness prevention

Example (Together) Prompt: Explain the potential benefits of attending college.Brainstorm possible points.What are some potential benefits?What works best for you, your purpose, and your

audience? Thesis Statement: ?

Now, You Try…Prompt: If you could be a famous person, who

would you be, and why?Thesis Statement: ?

ORPrompt: What is your favorite means of

transportation? Explain why.Thesis Statement: ?

Thus, the Introductory Paragraph…

Hook + Thesis Statement = Introductory Paragraph You may need a transitional word, phrase, or

sentence to connect your hook and thesis statement.

Now, You Try… Instructions:

1. Select one of the previous prompts.2. From that prompt, choose the most suitable type of hook.3. Lure in the audience. 4. Brainstorm possible points to create a thesis statement.5. Connect your hook and your thesis statement.6. Now, you have written an introductory paragraph.

Peer ReviewAfter writing your introductory paragraph, share with

THREE of your peers for constructive feedback.On a sticky note, peers will identify the following:

1. Type of hook used, rating effectiveness on a scale of 1-42. Two-three points of thesis statement, rating effectiveness

on a scale of 1-43. One positive, one negative comment (Be constructive!)4. Sign your name as well.