1. The Intro/Conclusion

2. The Intro The attention-getter:
Provides some start to the intro that draws the reader into your paper.
Humor
Statistic/Fact
Unexpected information
SHORT anecdote
Does not need to be outrageously shocking… simply work on something that will grab attention

3. The Intro Assertion: What is your stance? Preview: What is to come
This is your thesis statement
Be clear about your claim
Avoid the definition… this is just the intro to your topic
Preview: What is to come
Introduce the reader to the different points you will make
Ties back to your 3 body paragraphs
Follow the order of your paper

4. The conclusion Create a summary statement: Restate your thesis
Restates the key points for the readers
Restate your thesis
“This is why…”
Makes your overall point emphasized, clear
The Clincher
Leave the reader with a final thought that will make them think

5. Some notes on sentences…
“I think, I believe, I feel”
Be clear and concise
Use less words, adjectives
Separate your long sentences into multiple sentences

6. Proper Grammar
Avoid trying to fit too much info into the beginning of the sentence
Think: what is my focus
Before: While I was walking down the street on a day that was sunny, I ran into an old friend.
After: I ran into an old friend as I was walking down the street one sunny day.
The passive voice
The ball was thrown to Tom vs. Jeff threw the ball to Tom.
The comma splice
Example: I saw a movie, Tom saw a play.
Make certain your sentence IS a sentence
Subject and verb must be accounted for
Periods can add emphasis, but use them correctly.