J Introduction

Introduction: the first paragragh of the essay whose function is to inform the reader of the subject of the paper, the purpose and topics of the paper

Attention Getter: first line of the introduction

Function: gain the attention of the reader

Transition: comes after the attention getter and between the thesis

Function: serves as a buffer between the attention getter and the thesis and is often used to introduce the subject of the paper to the reader.

Thesis Statement: last sentence of the introduction

Function: to inform the reader of the purpose and the topic of the reader

A creative way to start your paper with the intention of setting a good first impression

1. Famous quote

2. Statistic

3. Set the scene

4. Definition

5. Question

Paper Topic: What are the causes of the Civil War?

Typical Way: The Civil War was an American war fought between the North and the South.

Famous Quote: Abraham Lincoln, president during the Civil War, once stated “those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.”

Statistic: 51,116…the number of men who died during a three day period at The Battle of Gettysburg.

Set the Scene: Bang! Shots ring out! Brothers watch their brothers die in a warm pool of blood…this was our American Civil War.

Definition: Webster’s Dictionary defines “civil” as abundant in courtesy; however, there was nothing civil about our American Civil War.

Question: Could you imagine living in an America where neighbors would bear arms against neighbors for the cause of war?

After you establish your attention getter, your next task is to transition to your thesis statement.

Transition: A few sentences that are use to transition between the creative attention getter to the more factual thesis statement This is best described as going from broad to narrow. In the transition, you want to be sure to introduce and establish the subject of your paper. You want to make sure you tell the reader what they need to know in order to understand the subject of the paper.

EXAMPLE #1

Abraham Lincoln, president during the Civil War, once stated “those who deny freedom to others deserve it not for themselves.” This statement about freedom was made in response to the South’s desire to own slaves. Slavery, along with many other issues, lead to the outbreak of the Civil War. The causes of the Civil War were economic differences, slavery, and the election of Abraham Lincoln.

EXAMPLE #2

A mother holds their child's hand for a short time, but their hearts they hold forever. Mother's are incredibly important to a child, as they are responsible for the development of the child. My mother, is an incredibly important person responsible for my personal development. As a result, my mother has had a significant influence on me because she taught me sharing, love, and kindness.

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