3.14 Writing an Introduction and a Conclusion

Introduction

draftingThe introduction is very important. It is also short - often 2 - 4 sentences. It will determine whether or not the reader will want to continue reading, want to know more, read with eyes glossed over in boredom, or not want to continue reading at all. Pretty important wouldn't you say?

First Sentence:

  • Start with a quote. If you have collected some quotable quotes, this may be a powerful way to start!
  • Begin with an action. (E.g. For Terry Fox: Crowds lined the street to cheer on the young man who was running a marathon a day...)
  • Start with a question.(E.g. Terry Fox – who is this person whose legacy lives on almost 40 years?)

The Last Sentence:

  •  A strong statement related to your big question. (E.g. This Canadian hero has had more impact than he could have possibly imagined!)

The first paragraph does not give away all of the details in the body paragraphs. You may add one or two sentences between your first and last sentence to tie it all together but save the body paragraphs' information for where it belongs.

Draft your introductory paragraph now. Then, return to this online lesson book.