Writing Your Introductory Paragraph: Knighten-Style …or how not to be totally lost at the beginning of your research paper

Hello, I’m going to… Take you on a journey through the Introductory Paragraph. Please keep your arms and feet inside the car at all times. Thank you and enjoy the ride.

Think of the introduction as a tornado… <-This is your attention grabber <-This is your brief explanation of what you will be talking about <-This is your thesis, where your point hits home

3 Steps to Writing an Intro Paragraph Step 1: Grab the readers with a hook Step 2: Briefly explain in 2-5 sentences what the research paper will be about Step 3: End your introduction with a strong statement that tells your reader what you intend to prove about your topic

Step : Hook Your Reader 6 ways! Quote Dialogue Vivid description Interesting fact Story Question (ewwww, Mrs. K hates this one!)

Step 2: Explain what you are taking about In 2-5 sentences, what is your essay about

Step 3: Write your Thesis statement You have a format for this…turn in your yellow packet now. Let’s do it together!

Thing you must avoid! “this paper will discuss” “I’m going to write about” Instead: The assassination of Martin Luther King Junior….

Sample He was one of the most revered and at the same time hated leaders of the 20th century. The assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Junior happened during a tumultuous time in American history. With the Civil Rights movement in full swing, Americans were polarized as a nation. Although many saw King as a savior, one who would awaken the country to the concept of equality for all, others vehemently rejected his person and mission. The assassination of King is an important topic to understand because it provoked the Civil Rights movement. This event shows people that through the life and death of one man, an entire nation can change.