Effective IntroductionsSpiderman 2 – why is this introduction effective?

Effective “leads” for the introduction for an essay

Objective: To Capture the Reader's AttentionMethods: 1. Quotation: words from someone famous or from a famous piece of writing; introduces the theme of the essay2. Question: Ask a question in the introduction...and answer it in the body of the essay3. Problem: Pose a problem in the introduction...and solve it in the body of the essay.4. Statistics: . Make sure they're actual statistics and not something you made up on the way to the library.

Effective Introductions (continued)

5. Analogy: Take something the reader is unfamiliar with and relate it to something they are familiar with.6. Shocker: a controversial statement. 7. Anecdote: A short humorous story that is usually personal and relevant to the topic8. Expert opinion: An expert gives you instant credibility with the reader. Make sure the expert is an actual expert and not your Uncle Fred from the Yukon9. Background: Remind the reader of the current situation or issue and why it is important10. Imagery: create a vision or scene for the reader

Group Task 1

In your assigned group:Read the introductory paragraphs of the essays listed below (sometimes it is up to 4 paragraphs in length) and determine the method used by the writer.Essays:1. How Wise is it… (page 406)2. Forget Prince Charming (page 322) 3. Cellphones (page 403)4. History? Education? Zap! Pow! Cut! (page 537)5. Don’t You Think it’s Time to Start Thinking?6. Science and Beauty (page 311)

Group Task 2

• Group Task 2: Select ONE of the topics listed on the board and write Three different types of leads.

You may need to make up some of the “facts” for certain methods) Be prepared to read your leads to the class.• Post your best example on chart paper.

Persuasive Essay TopicsEducation• Culture based schools (i.e. Afri-centric) and/or gender-based schools are good

idea for public education. • Post secondary institutions should use standardized tests as part of the

acceptance “formula”.• The public education system needs to changeTechnology• The increase in the use of social media (texting, twitter, facebook etc.) is

causing more harm than good. • Cellphones should be allowed to be used in classrooms. Societal Issues• Big businesses have an obligation to have a social conscience • We live in a society that promotes violence• Racism is still a major social problem in Canada • Athletes and/or celebrities have an obligation to be role models

Gallery Activity

• Move around the class to read the other group’s leads

• Think about how well it suits the topic chosen • Identify 1-2 strengths of each

Effective ConclusionsPurpose: To reinforce the main argument that has been presentedCharacteristics:• Summary of key points• A link to the “lead” of the essay• Leave the reader thinking, or

perhaps, include a call to action• Avoid introducing new information