Writing Effective Opening Paragraphs: Hooking the Reader and Stating Your Thesis

This lesson teaches how to start a written response by first engaging the reader with a hook, then presenting a thesis statement, and finally explaining the importance of the argument. The example used is a persuasive letter about getting a pet, where the writer plans the response, crafts a hook, states the thesis, and concludes with reasons supporting the argument. The lesson emphasizes the importance of considering the audience and structuring the opening paragraph effectively.

What is the first step in beginning your response to a writing prompt?

What are the three reasons mentioned for why getting a pet is a good idea?

What is a common mistake students make when starting their response?

Why is it important to think about the reader when writing an opening paragraph?

How should you structure your opening paragraph in a persuasive letter?