WRITING INTRODUCTIONS FOR ESSAYS

The Introduction

Most Common Type of Introduction:

The ways in which people communicate differ significantly around the world. What people say, how they say it, and what they mean when they say it depend on the standards and customs of their society. People in some cultures, for example, tend to say things directly, whereas those in other cultures speak indirectly. Some cultures value formal means communication, while other societies prefer the informal; some cultures stress emotional expression, and others emphasize logical expression. These variations in the forms and functions of verbal communication, reflecting culturally learned values, often lead to intercultural conflict and misunderstanding.

Most Common Type of Introduction:

The ways in which people communicate differ significantly around the world. What people say, how they say it, and what they mean when they say it depend on the standards and customs of their society. People in some cultures, for example, tend to say things directly, whereas those in other cultures speak indirectly. Some cultures value formal means communication, while other societies prefer the informal; some cultures stress emotional expression, and others emphasize logical expression. These variations in the forms and functions of verbal communication, reflecting culturally learned values, often lead to intercultural conflict and misunderstanding.

Most Common Type of Introduction:

The ways in which people communicate differ significantly around the world. What people say, how they say it, and what they mean when they say it depend on the standards and customs of their society. People in some cultures, for example, tend to say things directly, whereas those in other cultures speak indirectly. Some cultures value formal means communication, while other societies prefer the informal; some cultures stress emotional expression, and others emphasize logical expression. These variations in the forms and functions of verbal communication, reflecting culturally learned values, often lead to intercultural conflict and misunderstanding.

Good Thesis Statement

Gives a clear topicExpresses a clear opinion

Weak Thesis Statement

Does not express an opinion“This paper will explain the characteristics of a good

manager”

Obviously True or Fact“Facebook is popular with young people today”

States something that everyone knows is true“To be a good student requires hard work”

Too much personal opinion“Smoking is bad because I hate it.”

Too broad“The American Civil War had good and bad results”