3. Overview
The introductory paragraph…
should grab the reader’s attention and make
him/her want to read the remainder of the writing.
sets the context for the essay by introducing your
topic and providing just enough background that
your argument makes sense.
ends with your thesis statement.
4. So, you should include:
A Hook
(to grab the attention of the reader)
It should relate to your topic and reflect the
academic tone of your paper.
Background Information
(enough to set the context of your topic, but not
enough to bore your reader)
Your Thesis Statement
(the specific ideas that you will argue in the
essay)
5. Sample Introduction
The emergence of the cell phone as a tool for social
interaction has brought with it many advantages, but
unfortunately it has also brought many unwanted side
effects. The expression “with increasing technology
comes increasing responsibility” has been used before
and the cell phone is do different. It is important for
people to remember that it is just an object and nothing
more. However, for many people the cell phone has
become their identity rather than a tool. It has become
an “electronic leash” and has changed the way people
conduct personal relationships. The uniqueness of face-
to-face contact is being lost as we establish mobile,
faceless identities. Furthermore, the cell phone inhibits
users from living in the present. If one makes the cell
phone too important in daily life, it can create an identity
for the user and impede the ability to live life to the
fullest.
6. Introduction Style: Shock & Awe
Use a strong fact or statistic—a shocking fact
can be a great way to introduce your topic
Seventy-eight percent of parents stated that they would
be in favor of school uniforms (Smith 59). This
highlights that a need for school apparel reform is
necessary.
7. Introduction Style: Story Time
Write an anecdote—provide a brief story that
is drawn from recent news events
Mrs. Smith no longer needs to worry about what
style of clothes to buy her children. In August, her
shopping consists of ordering the school’s uniform
from the approved catalog. She enjoys the
simplicity of school shopping.
8. Introduction Style: What If?
Create a hypothetical situation—paint a picture
of events that have not occurred, but can show
a “what if” scenario to the audience
Imagine the school pride that students would
have if they all wore the school’s colors to class.
9. Introduction Style: Surprise Me!
Start with a startling claim—taking a risk and
starting with a bold statement can be effective
It is possible to remove all school-related violence
by adopting a school uniform policy.
10. Introduction Style: Big Ideas
Make a general statement—discuss your topic
in a broad manner. The introduction will work
toward the more specific ideas presented in
the thesis.
• The idea of school uniforms
has been debated a great
deal over the last decade.
This debate has involved
opinions from
administrators, parents, and
students.
• But…
12. Conclusions need to…
Be substantial.
They’re not an after-thought.
Restate the thesis statement.
To remind your reader of your main point.
Summarize the contents of your paper.
To wrap up your argument.
Answer the question “so what?”
The importance of your point OR
Inspiration to take action OR
13. Sample Conclusion
Cell phones are valuable pieces of
technology in this ever-shrinking world, yet it is
important for everyone to keep their purpose
and value in perspective. People must try to
keep face-to-face contact as an important part
of society. It is necessary to remember that
even though it is possible to be in contact with
others, one must enjoy the moment and
surroundings. It is important for one’s own
sanity that one remain free from the “electronic
leash.”
14. Refer to Mrs. Skotnicki’s annotated
introduction and conclusion examples.
Still need help?
