How do you hook your reader from the very beginning of

your letter?

Dear Principal,

You MUST read this!

In this lesson you will learn how to draft a strong opening

paragraph by using a provocative question.

Let’s Review

A convincing argument is engaging from the very beginning.

Ways to begin a letter:

• Tell a story• Ask a provocative question• Make a brave statement

A Common Mistake

Writers sometimes begin a letter by simply stating their thesis.

Core Lesson

Reread your thesis statement.1

2 Think of a question.

3 Draft your paragraph.

Core Lesson

Reread your thesis.1

Think of your thesis as an answer to a question.

Thesis: Recess should be at least thirty minutes every day. It is important for us to get our energy out, to exercise, and to talk to friends.

Core Lesson

2 Think of a question.Use sentence starters: “Have you

ever…” “Do you feel…”

Have you ever been frustrated by a talkative class in the hallway?

Do you feel annoyed that your class can’t sit still?

Core Lesson

2 Think of a question.

Have you ever been frustrated by a chatty class in the hallway?

Do you feel annoyed that your class can’t sit still?

Consider your argument and purpose.

Core Lesson

3 Draft your opening paragraph.

Have you ever been frustrated by a chatty class in the hallway? I know a great way to make sure that noisy hallways are a thing of the past! Make recess longer! Recess should be at least thirty minutes every day. It is important for us to get our energy out, to exercise, and to talk to friends.

Core Lesson

Reread your thesis statement.1

2 Think of a question.

3 Draft your paragraph.

In this lesson you have learned how to draft a strong opening

paragraph by using a provocative question.

Guided Practice

Your turn!

1. Reread your thesis statement.

2. Think of a question.

3. Draft your paragraph.

Extension Activities

Extension Activities

Use an additional strategy to write an alternative opening paragraph. Read both opening paragraphs to a partner and see which paragraph is more engaging.

Ways to begin a letter:

• Tell a story• Ask a provocative question• Make a brave statement

Extension Activities

Extension Activities

Read the following thesis statement. Practice writing an engaging opening paragraph with a strategy of your choice.

The school day should start later. A later start to the school day would allow children to be well rested, be on time for school, and to be able to participate in extra curricular activities before school.

Let’s ReviewQuick Quiz

What are the different ways to begin an opinion letter?