How to write an Introductory paragraph “One today is worth two tomorrows.” Ben Franklin Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

When you write an introductory paragraph, keep in mind that . . . Writing an introductory paragraph is like greeting someone. The paragraph should be short and to the point like saying, “Hello!” Also, you don’t want to get into the meat of the essay. Simply give the audience a concise idea of your essay’s purpose. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Remember that the introductory paragraph . . . Is the most important paragraph of the essay Must be at least 50-60 words long or three-five sentences minimum Needs to do several things Follow AIRS format: Attract readers attention Identify the author and title of article (s) Restate prompt in your own words State the thesis Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Created by José J. González, Jr. Even though there are several ways to begin an essay, I recommended that you choose one particular method and perfect it. Why? Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Because if you keep using the same method, you will . . . Become an expert in this particular method. Moreover, if you already know how you will begin your essay, you will be more prepared, relaxed, and confident. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Let us consider different types of attention grabbers . . .(A) in AIRS General statement introduction Quotation introduction Anecdote Surprise There are other ways to begin an introductory paragraph, but these three ways will do for now. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Examples of general statement introduction Almost every time that you turn on the television you will find a number of shows which are extremely violent. Many public schools have decided that their students should use uniforms. In the United States of America the public burning of our flag has become a common sight. (These are three different example of how you can begin your paragraph. If you will notice in the first sentence you simply introduce the topic. You do not state your thesis yet.) Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Quotation introduction A recent article in Time magazine states that the viewing of extremely violent television shows is the number one cause of violence in our inner cities. John F. Kennedy once said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” “I have a Dream” is one of the most recognized sentences in the world. ( You can begin an essay by providing some information from a magazine or newspaper you might have read. This introduction is a bit more difficult to write, but just as effective as the other ones.) Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Ancedote (setting the scene) This is a mini narrative where you describe something generally. Example: Imagine being in the middle of the woods, scared for your life. You hear the dogs searching and barking. You know if any of your passengers move, you will be found. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Created by José J. González, Jr. Surprise Statement This is a statement that sounds so out of context the reader has to keep reading to figure out where you are going with it and what you mean. Example: Did you know that Canada is pink? Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Next step: Introduce Author and Article (I) in AIRS The next sentence in your introductory paragraph needs to include the author and title of the text. If there are two articles, you need to put both in. Remember that article titles get put in quotes – not underlined!! “A Woman Called Moses” by Karen Sims… Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Restate the prompt in your own words (R) in AIRS Using words used in the prompt – restate the prompt. Can combine it with the author and title sentence. Example: “A Woman Called Moses” by Karen Sims conveys several central ideas. “Trash: Why Recycle” by Mark Jones argues the point of view that recycling is not necessary. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

State your Thesis (S) in AIRS The thesis should be the last sentence in your introductory paragraphs. It is – technically- is something that you can prove through evidence you just read If it is a FACT – it is not a thesis. (It has to be proven) It is the topic of your essay and what you are saying about the topic. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Created by José J. González, Jr. Thesis Examples NO: The sun is 7.5 million miles away from Earth Harriet Tubman led 200 slaves to freedom. Yes: The author’s point of view is conveyed through…. One central idea in the article is that Harriet Tubman is a symbol of freedom. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Created by José J. González, Jr. In the next three slides you will view completed introductory paragraphs. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

General statement introduction Today smoking is an issue which is on everybody’s mind. Imagine opening a car door and the whole inside of the car is engulfed in a smokey haze. The article “The Side Effects of Smoking” by Susan Henry focuses on several central ideas. The whole country is divided on this issue. Some people believe that smoking should be banned everywhere while others are not so harsh. However, the central point is that tobacco should be outlawed because smoking endangers everyone’s health, pollutes the environment, and drains us of valuable energy. Notice that the introduction has three parts. First, you introduce the topic. Then in one or two sentences you lead in to your position and reasons which is the third part, the thesis sentence. Also note that the thesis is stated in one sentence, both position and reasons. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Quotation introduction John F. Kennedy once said, "Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” In “Our Country is in Trouble” by Susan Johnson, the authors point of view is voiced by her word choice, examples and tone. Today's Americans have forgotten Kennedy's message. We expect our country to take care of us, but we are not taking care of our country. Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002

Created by José J. González, Jr. Final reminders !!!! Be concise and to the point! Do not go into too much detail! At least 50 words minimum! You must do four things . . . attract readers attention introduce author and title of text restate prompt in own words state your thesis Created by José J. González, Jr. Spring 2002