Writing An Introduction
What is an introduction?
An introduction is the first paragraph (or
paragraphs) of any written work.
What is the function of an introduction?
•captures your audience's attention.
•gives background on your topic.
•develops interest in your topic.
•guides your reader to your thesis.
Writing An Introduction
What goes on in an introduction?
•The introduction begins with a broad statement
about the main idea. This statement might suggest
background or the general category to which the
thesis idea belongs.
•The next sentences are more specific, moving closer
to the actual thesis of the essay. You will not actually
state your actual topic until the 3rd sentence.
•The final sentence of an introduction will sum up the
answer to your research question and is your thesis
statement.
Introduction: 4 steps
Think of your introduction as four sentences,
always moving towards your thesis!
May mention
time and place
Do not yet
mention topic!
May mention topic
Here. Lead into
Thesis.
Step 1: Broad Statement
A broad statement is a statement that talks about
generalities pertaining to your topic. This sentence will
incorporate some background material of the Time and
Place your paper covers.
Example of first
sentence: In the
small town of Tupelo,
Mississippi in 1935,
the world was about
to change.
Step 2: Getting A Little More Specific!
Your next sentence will begin to get closer to your thesis.
You provide a little more information about your topic
and/or the impact.
Example second
sentence: A King was
born that would, in
time, re-invent the
sound of popular
music forever.
Step 3: Getting Ready for the Thesis
Sentence
The third sentence becomes even more specific, paving
the way for your thesis statement. MENTION YOUR
TOPIC.
Example third
sentence: His presence
took on a life of its own,
because Elvis Presley
had the charm, looks,
and singing voice to
captivate the hearts of
a generation.
Step 4: Write your Thesis!
Finally, you will have arrived at your thesis statement about
Elvis Presley
Thesis sentence: Though
Elvis Presley’s untimely
death cut short a
revolution in rock and roll
music, it was this
inspirational music and the
adoration of millions of
fans that created an
impact on American
culture for all time.
The A+ Introduction
In the small town of Tupelo, Mississippi in
1935, the world was about to change. A King was
born that would, in time, revolutionize the sound of
popular music forever. His presence took on a life
of its own because Elvis Presley had the charm,
looks, and singing voice to captivate the hearts of a
generation. Though Elvis Presley’s untimely death
cut short a revolution in rock and roll music, it was
this inspirational music and the adoration of millions
of fans that created an impact on American culture
for all time.