Story Leads/Conclusions Revising and Editing Story Leads/Conclusions

What is a Lead? The lead is the beginning or introduction of a story. It establishes a direction or mood for the rest of the story. A good lead grabs the reader’s attention and refuses to let go. In other words, it hooks the reader.

Four Kinds of Leads Action The reader is immediately drawn into the action of the story. I heard a loud crash, my little brother screamed, and I started running. When I got to the backyard, blood was everywhere and Michael was sitting holding his knee, crying. Pieces of broken bottle lay in the blood pooling around him. I began to panic.

Five Kinds of Leads cont. Dialogue The text begins with one or more people speaking. “Jason! Jason, help me!” I ran out the kitchen door to the backyard, where my brother was playing. When I got there, I knew it was bad. “Are you…? Are you…” That was all I could say. Nothing else would come out of my mouth.

Four Kinds of Leads cont. Setting This traditional beginning describes time and place. One Saturday night during the summer, my parents decided to go to a movie. I was in charge of my little brother Michael, and I was in a bad mood. I didn’t want to babysit on Saturday night. Michael was much younger than I and really annoying. He always got into my stuff and asked too many questions while I watched television.

Four Kinds of Leads cont. Reflection The narrator examines the subject, describing thoughts and feelings. I never appreciated my little brother Michael. I thought he was annoying, a nuisance, and a burden. But that horrible night, I learned how important he is to me. I realized I would do anything for Michael. Anything.

Writing Conclusions Conclusions should refer to the ideas mentioned in the introduction and throughout the paper. Provides unity/coherence to the story Conclusions should be a combination of the following statements Looking back Lesson Learned Next time

Looking Back Statement Reflections Helping the disadvantaged was very rewarding. I would do it again in an instant. Thoughts “Even though helping out the underprivileged was challenging at first, it made me realize how fortunate I am.” Emotions When I saw the smiles on the faces of those men, women, and children, it made me warm inside. A sense of joy filled my heart to know I was making a difference. Memory I think I will always remember the time I helped the needy for the holidays.

Lesson Learned Statement Decision After my experience, I realize there are thousands of people that need my help, and I will do everything I can to make sure I change at least one life for the better.

Next Time Statement Future Thoughts Plans, hopes, and wishes The next time I go to volunteer for the holidays, I will bring as many family and friends as I can. Plans, hopes, and wishes I know poverty is a major issue in the world. I hope/wish something can be done about it soon. I know poverty is a major issue in the world. I plan to change that by starting a community group in my neighborhood.

“Even though helping out the underprivileged was challenging at first, it made me realize how fortunate I am.” The next time I go to volunteer for the holidays, I will bring as many family and friends as I can. After my experience, I realize there are thousands of people that need my help, and I will do everything I can to make sure I change at least one life for the better.