Academic Writing for Social Work Introductions and Conclusions

Introductions ‘intro’ = ‘inward’ + ‘ducere’ = to lead An introduction leads the reader into the essay. It sets up the argument. What? Why? How?

Why is it important to write a good introduction to an essay? Gain the reader’s interest give an idea of the writer’s position create expectations about the content and organisation of the essay.

Setting the essay topic in context This involves providing the reader with relevant background, e.g. by explaining the importance or implications of the subject by defining the subject by giving some historical background.

Giving an overview of the purpose and content of the essay Will it explain, evaluate, criticise…? The introduction should also set the parameters of the essay: What will be covered and perhaps what will not be covered?

Giving a ‘map’ of the essay Explain the structure, framework or line of approach used in the essay, and the reason for using it.

Clarifying the aims of the essay The introduction should also help you, the writer, to clarify what you are aiming to do in your essay. These aims should be the focus throughout the essay.

When to write the Introduction. Some writers like to do it first, others leave it till last. If you leave it till last, it’s still very advisable to make some notes of what you think you will put in it, to keep you focused.

The shape of an introduction GENERAL NARROWING TO SPECIFIC FOCUS ESSAY STRUCTURE

The following steps sum up the introduction process Introduce the general context within which your topic is located Introduce your topic Introduce the specific focus of your topic: What is the question you are hoping to answer? Which theoretical framework will you draw on? Finally, tell the reader HOW you are going to answer and in what order you will deal with issues raised.

Common problems with Introductions Sweeping generalisations Word for word repetition of the essay title No contextualisation so the reader does not know where you are in the scheme of intellectual enquiry generally. No statement of intent (thesis statement) The statement promises things which are not delivered.

Conclusions ‘com’ = ‘together’ + ‘claudere’ = to close Closing the argument. Bringing together the different strands of what has been covered into a final opinion. Has the essay question been answered?

The Conclusion It needs to give a ‘big picture’ of what your essay has covered. It should refer back to key terms of the essay task and what you outlined in your introduction, and show the extent to which you have been able to deal with the issues. There may be a final message to the reader.

Common features of a conclusion A logical conclusion which may be reached from the ideas in your text. A brief summary of the main ideas in your text. Comments on the ideas which were examined. Predictions for future developments of the topic and/or: Mention of further research which might be required. Limitations of the work covered by your text.

Common problems with conclusions Do not use the identical wording you used in your introduction. Do not simply summarise your essay – the conclusion should be evaluative and reflective. Do not introduce totally new ideas.

Common problems cont’d Do not be too sweeping in your conclusions. Do not contradict what you have said previously.

Structure of Essay 2 Introduction Historical overview Anti-oppressive practice in relation to adults with learning difficulties Model 1 Model 2 Model 3 How a social worker can implement these models: practical points related to service users’ perspectives Conclusion