Essay Introduction and Thesis Statements

Essay Introductions and Thesis Statements

Multiple Choice

What do you think the purpose of an introduction is?

• To introduce the topic and hook the reader.

• To summarize the main points of the text.
• To provide a detailed analysis of the topic.
• To list all the references used in the document.

Introductions

Introductions are meant to introduce your topic to readers and give them an idea of the general idea you'll be discussing.

​General

​Specific

Hook

Thesis

Multiple Choice

What do you think a hook is?

• A hook is a type of fishing equipment.
• A hook is a device used to engage the reader's interest.
• A hook is a part of a computer program.
• A hook is a musical term for a catchy tune.

Hooks make the reader want to keep reading.

Here are some ways to start your introduction.

Quote
Interesting fact
Statistic
Personal story (related to the topic)
Something to grab the reader's attention
NOT a question!

Draw

Put a blue box around the hook in the paragraph.

​Correct Answer

Multiple Choice

What do you think comes right after the hook/1st sentence in introduction?

• A personal anecdote
• A quote from a famous person
• A summary of the main points
• Background, context, or transition information

​Transition, background or context information!

Transition material allows you to move from general (hook) to specific (thesis). You need this material to introduce your topic fully.
**Don't start getting into the body of your essay YET--just introduce the topic!

Draw

Put a orange box around the context or transition information.

​Correct Answer

Multiple Choice

What do you think should come at the very end of your introduction?

• A summary of the main points.
• An anecdote related to the topic.
• A clear thesis statement.

• A list of references used in the text.

• A thesis statement is usually one sentence.

• It includes the topic and what you want to say about it.

• If writing about dogs, a thesis statement could be: "Dogs are great pets because they are loyal, friendly, and helpful."

Structure/Example

• It is the main idea or big idea of an essay. It tells the reader what the paper is all about.

• It helps guide the writer to stay on topic.

• It tells the reader what they're going to learn or find out.

Definition and Purpose

A clear thesis statement should be at the end of your introduction.

Draw

Put a green box around the thesis statement.

Correct Answer

Open Ended

Pick your favorite animal and write a thesis statement telling me why it is the best animal.

Use this template:

________ is the best animal because ________, _______, _______.

Open Ended

Write a thesis statement telling me why your favorite class at school is important.

Template:

________________ is important because _______, ________, ______.