The Write Stuff

Why Should I Care About Writing? Writing is an essential job skill Builds your ability to explain complex positions Develops communication and thinking skills Helps give others feedback and helps others give feedback to you. Writing expresses who you are as a person

5 Paragraph Essay Blueprint Introduction –Hook –Background –Thesis Statement Body Paragraph –Topic Sentence –Supports –Concluding Sentence Conclusion –Restate Thesis –Summarize –Lasting Impression

Introduction Paragraph “You never get a second chance to make a first impression”

Parts of the Introduction Paragraph Hook Background Information Thesis

The Hook It should grab your reader’s attention. Quote Vivid description Anecdote Definition Must transition into the paper’s topic

Hook: Quote A quote is a memorable line from a famous figure in history. Make sure to include author/speaker. Ex) Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the change you wish to see in the world.”

Hook: Vivid Description A vivid description is like a photo- a single snapshot. Unlike an anecdote, it has no plot or action. Ex) The sweet smell of cotton candy floats in the air. Bumper cars collide in the distance. There is nothing like the county fair.

Hook: Anecdote An anecdote is a short story that leads the reader into your topic. Ex) Imagine a small child crying at the county fair because they cannot ride the rides the big kids do. Despite their wailing, the parent does not budge. In a similar fashion…

Hook: Definition Define a term that is closely related to your topic. Provide a definition that your audience may not know. Ex) Webster’s dictionary defines sarcasm as, “a witty remark used to convey insult.”

Background Information Assume that your reader has never read the question What does your audience need to know? – Names – Dates – Quotes – Arguments If it is a text, then include the author, title and a brief synopsis of the story

Background Info- Examine the Prompt Superintendent Doug Hammond believes that school violence has escalated. Due to this he is asking Howard County schools to enforce random locker checks each quarter. Students believe this is an invasion of privacy. Write a five paragraph essay stating your position on the issue. What does your audience need to know? Look for details…

The Thesis Statement

The Roadmap for Your Essay Main argument of your paper It introduces the reader to the rest of your paper No thesis statement?

So What’s the Formula?

Recipe for a Good Thesis _______________ because ________________, ________________, and ________________. Arguable Point Reason #1 Reason #2 Reason #3

Give Me an Example Smoking should be illegal because it can kill you, can harm those around you, and it is addictive and difficult to stop once started.

Now it’s Your Turn!!!