Introductions using the “Funnel Method” Writing Assessments/Prompts

Introductions Contain general information about your topic that slowly gets focused. In order to write a great introduction, you need to have a hook and a thesis. To get from your hook to your thesis, think of your writing like a funnel.

Everyone Most Some Thesis

Sentence 1 = Hook Hook- A broad general statement starting with EVERYONE can get any essay started. Example – Everyone has a favorite subject. -- Generalization words you could use All, Most, Always, Never, Every, Some, etc. Your hook should be related to the prompt. Everyone

Sentence 2 – “Most” sentence Next, move from a really broad statement to a slightly more focused one. Start it with “Most” – Example: Most students like the subject that is the easiest or them. Most

Sentence 3 – “Some” sentence Move to another level of specificity. Start your third sentence with “Some.” – Example: Some students excel at math while others excel at language arts. Some

Sentence 4 -- Thesis  Your final sentence of your introduction should be your thesis statement.  You can copy part of the prompt and add your three points. Thesis

3 Kinds of Essays this Year = different kinds of thesis There is a possibility that you can get a narrative, expository, or persuasive essay/argument as your prompt. A expository or persuasive/argument prompt should have your three points listed. A narrative should be a statement that simply makes your reader want to read more.

Practice Writing Introductions Use this formula: H ook E veryone M ost S ome T hesis

Practice Writing Introduction to an opinion/argument essay: H __________________________ E_______________________________ M______________________________ S_______________________________ T_______________________________ Use “Gangs: Keep Out!” from Junior Scholastic, Nov. 26, 2007 as text for evidence

“The Right to Bear Arms?” from Junior Scholastic, March 10, 2008  Read front and back  What is the purpose of this text?  What are some of the main points?  What is your stance or viewpoint?

Practice Writing Introduction to an opinion/argument essay: H __________________________ E_______________________________ M______________________________ S_______________________________ T_______________________________ Use “The Right to Bear Arms?” from Junior Scholastic, March 10, 2008 as text for evidence.