Introductions and Conclusions
Techniques for a Good Introduction
• Ask a provocative or disturbing question – grabs the reader's
attention. Often shows an unfair or unwise situation, might get
the reader to think about how the situation affects THEM
personally.
• Share an anecdote relating to thesis – if personal, establishes
authority. If not, puts a human face on the situation.
• Offer a quotation – puts paper in perspective of larger
conversation/more general ideas
• Move from general to specific – begins by talking about
something that everyone is interested in, then shows how it
relates to your specific topic.
More Techniques for a Good Intro
• Correct a commonly held misconception – again, the
effect here is surprise, but it also attempts to change
audience attitudes.
• Begin with an intriguing statement or little known fact
– gives background information, makes your reader
wonder, "so what?"
• Striking example – immediately begins to
defend/explain your point, lets the reader know where
you stand from the beginning.
• Make a comparison – compare what you are writing
about to something your readers already know. More
relatable.
Examining Example Introductions:
• Look back at the following intros. What does each
author do to pull in the reader prepare them for
the rest of the essay?
• Paragraphs 1 and 2 of “What is Independent Hip
Hop?” on p. 303
• Paragraph 1 of “Identity in a Virtual World” on p.
176
• Paragraph 1 of “On Sale at Old Navy” on p. 269
• ONE other essay we’ve read this semester. (See
Syllabus for list.)
Conclusions
• Conclusions are often the most difficult thing
to write for some students, especially if you've
been taught the five paragraph essay style
that simply encourages you to repeat your
main points. A good conclusion does much
more than this.
Techniques for a Good Conclusion
• Look ahead – gets the audience to consider the future
• Remind readers of issue's importance – ensures that
they understand what is at stake, why your issue
deserves their attention.
• Offer a recommendation, call to action – gets readers
to make a change, do something. Most effective in
argumentative essays.
• Discuss the broader implications – connects your issue
with other important ones
• End with a fact, quote, or anecdote – leaves your
reader with something to remember.
Examining Conclusions
• Look back at the following conclusions. What
does each author do to tie up loose ends and
leave the reader with a powerful final thought?
• The last paragraph of “The Eye of the Beholder”
on p. 190
• The last paragraph of “Do I Look Like Public
Enemy Number One?” on p. 49
• The last paragraph of “Venus Envy” on p. 169
• Analyze a fourth conclusion from an essay we’ve
read of your choosing.