How to Write your Introduction Paragraph Encompass Academy

Intro Paragraph Your introduction paragraph should contain the following: Hook Background Claim

Intro Paragraph Grabber/Hook Examples Grabs the reader’s attention Hooks can be an interesting quote, little known fact, metaphor, famous last words, an anecdote or a statistic Examples When Hillary Clinton said “we must stop thinking of the individual and start thinking about what is best for society,” she highlighted one of the biggest issues in American politics. There was nothing more isolating than being alone in a foreign country, with no cell phone, no money, and no ability to speak the language. Have you ever wondered what you would do if you couldn’t fail? China is going to spend $850 billion to clean up its water supply over the next decade. The high rate of poverty in America is the country’s elephant in the room.

Intro Paragraph Background Example Information about the topic/claim Necessary for the reader to appreciate the writer's position Transitions from grabber/hook to thesis statement Example The high rate of poverty in America is the country’s elephant in the room. According to feedingamerica.org in 2014 46.7 million people in the United States were living in poverty, and 15.5 million of those were children and teenagers under the age of 18. The Washoe County School District website states that the district is able to identify over 3,500 children living in transition (children that do not live in their home/do not have a home) every year. When you write DBQ essays it is a good idea to look at the “Background Essay” to find information for this part of your intro

Intro Paragraph Claim Example A claim is a clear statement that makes an argument or takes a side. That means that someone could easily disagree or argue against a claim. Claims are clear and specific. Claims look different than opinions because they do not include phrases like, “I think” or “In my mind.” Every claim can be backed up with evidence from sources. Example There is a severe lack of programs in Washoe County to help children living in transition, partly because so many people are unaware that these children need help.

Intro Paragraph The high rate of poverty in America is the country’s elephant in the room. According to feedingamerica.org, in 2014 46.7 million people in the United States were living in poverty, and 15.5 million of those were children and teenagers under the age of 18. The Washoe County School District website states that the district is able to identify over 3,500 children living in transition (children that do not live in their home/do not have a home) every year. There is a severe lack of programs in Washoe County to help children living in transition, partly because so many people are unaware that these children need help.