WritingPalQuiz_I-B-C

What are three functions of an introduction paragraph?

• First paragraph of an essay. Introduces reader to the paper's position and its arguments.
• First paragraph of an essay. Introduces reader to the paper's principal evidence that supports the central claim.
• First or sometimes second paragraph of an essay. Helps the reader understand the central point of the claim by providing feasible evidence.

What are three benefits of a good introduction paragraph?

• Makes arguments more memorable and easier to understand. Stimulates reader's interest. Makes it easier to persuade reader that the paper's arguments are correct.
• Makes presenting the counterarguments immaterial. Helps structure the ending points. Allows the reader to come to the conclusion naturally.
• Helps set the tone early in the paper. Blends the tone with the principal arguments. Gives foreshadowing to the audience regarding the strength of the counterargument.

What is the TAG strategy?

• Clearly state the thesis. Preview the main arguments. Grab the reader's attention.
• Clearly state your tested ideas. State the agreements. Go back to the drawing board when necessary.
• Clearly get to the topic point. Make your arguments simply. Go over all the evidence last.

What is the two-step process for creating an effective thesis statement?

• 1. Clearly state position. 2. Link to main arguments.
• 1. Make a central claim that is clear and not controversial. Back the claim up with strong evidence.
• 1. Clearly state the two sides of the issue to be examined. 2. State which side of the argument you will support with evidence.

What are three facts about a thesis statement?

• Builds up to the thesis and "sets the stage" for it. Often
   the last sentence of the intro paragraph. May be refined and revised throughout the writing process.
• Joins with the thesis to set the tone of the paper. May be the last, but sometimes the second-to-last statement. Must be stated clearly before reviewing the process.
• Builds the thesis credibility with reliable evidence. Can change if evidence supports it. May be refined only when the evidence supports a change.

What are two reasons for presenting arguments in the introduction?

• Helps the reader know what to expect in terms of content and organization. Helps the reader follow the flow and logic of the arguments.
• Helps the reader block out unnecessary facts that become unclear when too long. Narrows the investigation of the paper.
• Opens up possibilities for the reader with headstones. Limits the investigation so the reader can concentrate on the main topic.

How do writers preview their main arguments

• Introduce the reader to the main arguments supporting the thesis. Do not explain the arguments or provide evidence. Elaborate on each argument in a separate body paragraph.
• Present both sides of the issues clearly in the early part of the essay. Open up the debate to stimulate reader thoughts. Augment the main points for emphasis.
• Excise excess words to hone in for a clean ad precise statement of fact. Ensure the main arguments are limited to those that can be scientifically proved.

What are four strategies for "grabbing" the reader's attention?

• Frame the thesis and arguments in ways that are memorable and interesting. Connect with reader intellectually and emotionally. Use relevant examples. Refer to specifics: dates, people, places. 
• Use animals or small children for effect. Connect with the reader's main hobbies. Use political figures for relevance. Frame the argument as optimistic, not pessimistic. 
• Engage in reader appeal. Open up the debate for new ideas. Bounce ideas off of neighbors or relatives to make sure they make sense. Repeat important information.

What are two things not to do when trying to grab the reader's attention?

• Include too many techniques in one introduction.  Make references to pop culture.
• Don't underestimate your reader. At the same time, don't overestimate the reader's interest in the topic.
• Change the topic in midstream. Use metaphors that can't be understood.

What are five attention-getting techniques?

• Question, historical review, setting a scene, personal anecdote, controversy.
• Question, answer, presumption, user information, outreach
• Question, inventory-release, emotional appeal, upgrading, integrating