METHODS OF DEVELOPING INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPHS
METHODS OF DEVELOPING INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPHS
(Minimum five sentences)
The introductory paragraph in an essay introduces the topic of the essay and should grab the attention of the reader and make them want to continue reading. An introductory paragraph can begin in several ways but must always end with the thesis, which must include the key word/phrase: (key words have been underlined for you in each example).
Below are some examples using this prompt: Think about a time you were very happy. Write a story about that time.
1. General to Specific (Also called TFH): Start the first sentence with the words "There are several....." The second begins with "For example...." The third sentences gives an explanation of the second sentence. The forth sentence gives another example. The fifth sentence gives an explanation of the forth sentence. The final sentence, which is your divided thesis, begins "However,...."
EXAMPLE: There are many happy times I have had in my life. For example, I was very happy when I entered first grade. I felt like I had matured and made an important step in growing up. Another time I was happy was when I received all A’s on my report card. I learned that hard work does pay off with specific rewards. However, the happiest time I can remember is the day I learned I had a new baby brother.
2. Quotation: Use someone's exact words-it can be someone you know personally or someone famous. Consider song lyrics or poems. You can even make up a quotation and attribute it to someone you know like your mom or your best friend or the words "I've always heard it said that..."
EXAMPLE: My mother often told me, "Having a baby brother is a blessing.” I had experienced many things in my life that brought me joy, but I didn’t understand her meaning at first. Now I agree with her. Although I still have fond memories of times when I achieved great things, nothing compares to sharing my achievements with others. One of the happiest days in my life was the day I received a new baby brother.
3. Opposing Point of View: Start with a point of view opposite of the one you're really going to write about.
EXAMPLE: Some people say that they hate having a younger brother or sister. They feel that being an only child would lead to a happier life. They feel siblings bring nothing but grief. I disagree. One of the happiest days in my life was the day I learned I had a new baby brother.
4. Series of Questions: Ask two or three questions which lead up to your topic. (Be careful and don't use the pronoun YOU).
EXAMPLE: What gives people a sense of fulfillment? Do most people really enjoy being alone? Is life more precious when it is shared with others? It is often difficult to determine events that bring happiness in life. I know the happiest day of my life was the day I learned I had a new baby brother.
CONCLUDING PARAGRAPHS
(Minimum five sentences)
1. Begin this paragraph with a concluding word/phrase: Examples-as a result, finally, consequently, therefore, accordingly, due to, in summary, in short, to sum up, all in all
2. After the concluding word or phrase, make a general statement about the subject that will signal the ending.
3. Write a sentence that summarizes the main points of the paper.
4. Add a few detail sentences to emphasize the point. (One sentence about each paragraph).
5. End with a culminating sentence, which leaves the reader thinking, or which will make them smile.
6. Be sure to include your key word/phrase somewhere in this paragraph.
SAMPLE CONCLUDING PARAGRAPHS:
All in all, there are many happy times in my life. Childhood memories flow whenever I stop to think about them. School days, summer days and times with friends fill my thoughts. Some events were joyous, some were sad, but most bring a smile to my face. Without a doubt, however, the happiest memory I have was when my brother William was born.
Finally, younger brothers and sisters can be a pain but also a blessing. Our lives are filled with moments that cause us discomfort. Some events in our lives occur because of our choices, other events are brought upon us by the actions of others. Growing up with siblings is sometimes difficult, but life would be lonely without them. Of all my childhood memories, one stands out most in my mind. I will never forget the happiness I felt when my brother William was born.
Introductory Paragraphs Edit Lesson
Edit the paragraphs to be sure that they follow the form on the Methods of Developing Introductory Paragraphs handout.
Example paragraph one: Sentence one must start with the words “There are several” or “There are many”. A complete sentence follows these words. Sentence two must start with the words “ For example,” A complete sentence follows this example. Sentences that follow must give at least one more example. The final sentence must start with the word “However,” A complete sentence that includes the thesis must follow.
Example paragraph two: Sentence one is a quote. It begins with the person who says the quote, has a comma then the quote follows. Example: A rich man once said, “Work hard and you will be rewarded.” Be sure the first word in the quote is capitalized. At least three specific statements follow sentence one. The final sentence includes the thesis.
Example paragraph three: Sentence one and two are negative statements At least two positive statements follow the negative statements. The final sentence includes the thesis.
Example paragraph four: Sentence one and two are questions. At least two positive statements follow the questions. The final sentence includes the thesis. Do not use “you”
If the proper structure was followed, write “complete” next to the paragraph.
If there is a problem in the structure, write specific examples of what the student did incorrectly.
Circle any missing punctuation marks.
Highlight- Capital letters = blue
Punctuation = yellow
Topic = pink
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