2. THESIS STATEMENTS In your first paragraph Does not always have to be the first sentence. Could be the last sentence of first paragraph. General statement about what you’re writing. AN UMBRELLA – “Covers” the whole paper.

3. 1. Ask a Question Example- What happens when a volleyball team wins its first 14 games and then finally loses one at the end of the season?

4. 2. Use a lively quotation Example- “Eating carrots will grow hair on your chest,” Grandpa boomed.

5. 3. Mention a strange or interesting detail Example- The temperature can drop to fifty degrees below zero on the summit of Mount Everest Incredibly, the Faircrest Wildcats had played 14 games, and they took the court at the Canton South Gym.

6. 4. Create a Sense of Drama Example- The solitary figure limped along the rocky trail.

7. 5. Begin with Action Example- The basketball circled the rim and wobbled maddeningly before dropping through the hoop.

8. 6. Use exclamations Example- Fifty dollars! You must be kidding!

9. 7. Use humor. Example- He emptied his pocket: a few loose coins, a house key, a handkerchief and a dead mouse.

10. 8. Present a Problem Example- As the warriors crossed the narrow bridge, they spotted their enemies shooting fire arrows

11. 9. Present an opinion Example- All students should do one hour of homework a day.

12. 10. Start with a Single Word Example- Lice. How I hate lice. Six of the students in my class have lice. It was only a matter of time.

13. 11. Set the scene Example- Outside, it was a cold and dreary October morning, but inside it was as hot as a sultry July afternoon. As 500 fans packed into the Canton South Gym to watch the undefeated Wildcats play the West Branch Warriors in the championship volleyball game, the chant soon began. The thunderous crowd was a sea of red and gray.