Writing- Introduction and Conclusion

1. Writing- Introduction and Conclusion ENGL 101 Mrs. Eleftheriades

2. Monday, April 28 • Aim: What is the function of the introduction and conclusion paragraph in an argumentative essay? • Objectives: • To become familiar with strategies for writing effective introductions and conclusions • To construct an effective introduction paragraph and “so what” response

3. The Introduction Paragraph • Introduces the text, author, and topic. • Responds fully to the prompt/question by stating a narrow and focused argument. (THESIS STATEMENT!) • Anticipates features, messages, and dynamics, in the text that will be examined in “proving” the argument. • Might preview some of the logic inherent in developing argument throughout the body paragraphs. • Takes a firm stand/opinion in relations to the text.

4. The Purpose • -Helps your reader transition and acclimate to your topic • -Gives your reader incentive to care about what they will continue to read in your body paragraphs • -A well written introduction provides readers with a good first impression of your argument, which makes it more persuasive • -Provides a road map for the rest of your paper

5. Strategies • Think about the question you are trying to answer– your direct answer to this question will turn into your thesis statement • Decide how broad or narrow your opening or thesis statement should be (depending on the length of your assignment) • Always come back to revise your introduction • Be assertive and confident in your writing

6. Common Pitfalls • Uses the introduction as a place-holder (vague language, several repetitive sentences that don’t say much) • Re-states the essay prompt without offering a specific angle • Poorly written/filled with errors • Starts with a definition from Webster’s Dictionary • Makes broad or sweeping generalizations about the topic • Summarizes the plot and other basic facts about the text, offering details that are irrelevant to the reader.

7. Academic Writing • Written in third person and in present tense (unless otherwise specified for various forms of writing) • An academic paragraph contains one idea that is developed through analysis • At no point should there be summarization of the primary text • At no point should there be definitions of words or concepts • Assume your audience has already read the text

8. Structure • T+A+G • Main Idea • 3 claims of support • So what?

9. Structure • T+A+G The Volkswagen Amarok advertisement • Main Idea Features a predominant image of a car key that promises • 3 claims of support Adventure, freedom, and individuality • So what? which exploits the patriotic values of its consumers.

10. Conclusion Paragraph • Demonstrate how your examples support and expand your thesis. • Explain how your thesis is a way to approach and read this specific text. • Tell the reader, “SO WHAT?” by indicating the implications of reading the entire text from the perspective of the thesis statement. • Connects the prompt/question to the entire text without directly restating it.

11. My Introduction • The American dream has long been considered an ideology that exists out of reach.  It is founded upon the idea of exploration, social advancement, and independence.  Though people may acknowledge that this dream is forever out of reach, it has not stopped them from buying into the promise of the values that the American dream instills.  Advertisers have capitalized on the desire for such values by making promises that their product can fulfill the American Dream.  The Volkswagen Amarok advertisement features a predominant image of a car key that promises adventure, freedom, and individuality, which exploits the patriotic values of its consumers.