1. Writing the Introduction for an Analysis Essay
AP Language and Composition

2. Basic observations about the introductory paragraph:
There is no one right way to write an opening paragraph.
The opening paragraph is extremely important as the first impression and for the way it affects a reader’s attitude toward the paper. A paper can “recover’ from a weak opening, but it’s an extra burden to undo the reader’s “first take” of the paper as earning a lower score, immature, or dull.

3. Basic observations about the introductory paragraph, con.:
The majority of students write “empty” openings, meaning that the content of the paragraph is shaped from what already exists in the prompt and is therefore “empty” of the writer’s critical thinking.
Opening paragraphs can be any length, but the high scoring papers often have three to four sentences (or more) whereas low scoring papers often have one or two.

4. What does not work well?
Rearranging or parroting the prompt but not adding anything from your own thinking. The intro. is “empty”.
Setting up a five paragraph essay that focuses on three separate ideas with no concept of the organic structure.

5. What does not work well?
Beginning with a broad, sweeping statement (i.e. “There
have always been wars”), a cliché (“A picture is worth a
thousand words”), or a truism (“Everyone wants to be
loved”). In general, if you can say, “Duh!” after the
statement, it falls into one of these categories.
Listing the devices an author uses, but saying nothing
more about them (i.e. “The author uses diction, imagery,
and point of view to express her ideas.”)

6. What does work well?
Weaving key words of the prompt into the opening paragraph (and the whole essay!) to show the reader you know that you need to answer the prompt.
Making a “grabber” opening sentence that gives insight into the over-arching idea of the piece or conveys an essential truth from it.
Writing a “bullet thesis” that directly addresses the prompt and is the thesis for the paper.

7. What does work well?
Weaving in a short, “essential quote” that captures the “spirit” of the piece and signals a direction for the student’s paper.
Sharing one’s own insight.

8. Getting Started

9. First – read the prompt
Annotate
Today’s prompt
Annotate the prompt so that you are aware of the concepts requiring an answer.
Discuss how N. Scott Momaday, in his work “The Way to Rainy Mountain,” uses various literary elements to reveal a basic truth about life.

10. Next – record the basics of what your essay will cover.
My essay:
In whatever form works best for you, decide the main elements you will cover in your essay, based on your reading of the prompt, and record them.

11. Write the introduction
Using what we learned today, and your previous knowledge, about writing a quality introduction, compose an introduction for “The Way to Rainy Mountain”.
Submit before leaving today, or at the start of class tomorrow.