The document discusses different types of leads or introductions that can be used when writing a paper to engage the reader. It describes leads that use dialogue, describe an action, ask a question, start at a climactic moment, provide a visual image or summary, share a personal anecdote, or use figurative language. The goal of a strong lead is to listen to and excite the reader so they are interested in learning more about the topic.

1. LEADS Ms. Brand

2. What is a Lead? Sometimes called a “hook” Leads the reader into the paper and “captures” their attention. The better the lead = the more interested the reader.

3. L – Listen and look for more E - Excite and Engage the reader A - Attract and Activate D - Drive and Direct where the paper is going.

4. Types of Leads Dialogue Lead- starts with someone talking or having a conversation. Example: “ Why did you go in there after I told you not to?” I can still hear my mother’s voice saying those words over and over again. Once they finally get me out of here, I’ll probably never hear the end of it. That’s if they get me out of here. HELP!

5. Types of Leads Action Leads- put the reader in the middle of some action. Example: “Struck with sudden panic, I hastily flipped through the many papers in my travel folder until I spotted the ticket.”

6. Types of Leads Question Leads- ask the reader or the audience a question. Example: Have you ever wondered how you would survive if you found yourself alone in the wilderness?

7. Types of Leads Climatic Lead- start with a bang or a high point from the writing. Example: It’s not that I’m a chicken or anything; I just don’t like going into someone’s house if they’re not home.

8. Types of Leads Picture/Image Leads- Give the reader a visual image by painting a picture with words. Example: The pencil sharpener was always hungry. It ate my pencil every time I went to sharpen it. It never seemed to do this to anyone’s pencil but mine. What was so special about my pencil?

9. Types of Leads Summary Lead- give a brief summary or overview of the whole piece. Example: If Jennifer Murdley hadn’t been forced to wear her brother’s underpants to school, the whole thing might never have happened.

10. Types of Leads Personal Lead (anecdotes)- Tell of some personal experience you had. Example: Although I did later in my room, I never cried at my grandfather’s funeral. I guess that is why I felt so sad for the little girl standing next to her grandma’s casket. She looked so lost and afraid.

11. Types of Leads Figurative Language Lead- uses a simile or metaphor as a comparison. Example: My hands were sweaty! My teeth wouldn’t quit chattering. Prickly fingers ran up my spine. It felt as if all the bones in my body had turned to mashed potatoes.

12. Leads Go back to your own paper– how could you adjust your paper to “hook” or lead the reader? Adjust your lead/introduction to include one of the different types of leads. Check with your neighbor when you are done to ensure it makes sense!