Why is it important? Write down three things that the intro paragraph should include.

You have been writing intro paragraphs since second grade. You have been writing intro paragraphs in this class throughout the school year. So why focus on intro paragraphs?

In most cases, the intro simply takes up space and provides a place in your paper to house your thesis statement.

When, in fact, the intro paragraph is a vital part of your essay. Why should a reader continue reading if there is not “hook” or pertinent information? I am your teacher, and I am obligated to read your essay; in the real world, no one is obligated to read your essay.

By definition, an essay is meant to explain or persuade. If you have something genuine and important to say, you need to make certain that the reader is compelled to read. By definition, an essay is meant to explain or persuade. If you have something genuine and important to say, you need to make certain that the reader is compelled to read.

Let’s create a metaphor… An intro paragraph is like body building. We want the intro paragraph to have a huge presence but not by adding just bulk but real musculature. In other words, good essay development strengthens, not merely fills out.

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This is the intro paragraph that you want.

Thesis: The U.S. needs to revise and strengthen its laws in regard to DUI infractions. Explain what DUI means/includes DUI deaths increasing each year Most DUI arrests are repeat offenders Laws are state specific and inconsistent Notice that my comments lead into the specific point of the thesis. The comments are not random BULK to take up space…. they are strong and well-defined

Consider these points… Do not develop specific points that you plan to argue or expand in the essay, but you may reference them. What does the reader need to know or understand in order to fully appreciate your essay? Explain terms that the reader may not be familiar with. Attention-getting device. Build interest in the subject. Create tone through diction and style. Lead into the thesis. Do not develop specific points that you plan to argue or expand in the essay, but you may reference them. What does the reader need to know or understand in order to fully appreciate your essay? Explain terms that the reader may not be familiar with. Attention-getting device. Build interest in the subject. Create tone through diction and style. Lead into the thesis.

You do it Choose a topic from the list and collaborate with your group. In addition to the thesis statement, list at least 3 pieces of information that should go in the intro paragraph of the essay. The thesis statement gives you and indication of the content and purpose of the essay. Of course, you will need to use your imagination here. Choose a topic from the list and collaborate with your group. In addition to the thesis statement, list at least 3 pieces of information that should go in the intro paragraph of the essay. The thesis statement gives you and indication of the content and purpose of the essay. Of course, you will need to use your imagination here.

Switch and review Can you improve this?

Switch Add an attention getting device if there is none. Use page 10 in your style book.

In a complete sentence, tell me the value of a strong introductory paragraph.

Write your own intro paragraph Complete the page in your packet. You will be able to use this page on Wednesday. Write on composition paper first so that you can revise. You may use only your packet on Wednesday. Print new blank pages from my web site if you need them. Start now.

Choose a topic from the choices given to you and collaborate with your group. In addition to the thesis statement, list at least 4 pieces of information that should go in the intro paragraph of the essay. The thesis statement gives you and indication of the content and purpose of the essay. Of course, you will need to use your imagination here. Example…