Module 2
Module 2: The introduction paragraph and thesis
Watch this video first!
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Some would argue that the introduction paragraph is the most important paragraph of an essay. And, I agree. The introduction paragraph has to do so many things. It has to:
- Grab the readers attention!
- Set the mood and tone of the essay, and
- Give a clear thesis of what the essay is about!
If you don't do these three things, your reader may loose interest and stop reading. We don't want that to happen, do we?
So, before we get started, let's organize our thoughts. The best way to do this is by creating an outline.
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To receive full credit for this module, you must complete the pre-module work, a three parts, upload your introduction paragraph, and contribute to the Module 2 Forum.
If you see a green check mark
at the right, you have successfully completed the task. Once there are 7 , you have completed everything necessary in Module 2.
- Pre-Module Work: Let's Make an Outline! Page
This graphic will show you exactly what goes into your 5-paragraph essay. Feel free to save this graphic on your desktop; you will reference it again at the end of this module.
- Part 1: Creating a Hook Interactive Content
Your title is your first chance the catch the readers attention. Sometimes, a good title does not come until you have finished writing the essay.
The first sentence of your essay, often called "the hook", may be the most important sentence of the whole essay. The hook must grab the readers attention. There are many types of hooks:
- Say something shocking! (ex. Banks have therapists known as ‘wealth psychologists’ who help clients who are unable to mentally cope with their immense wealth.)
- Make an emotional connection (ex. The dog howled in pain as the scientist stuck perfume in its eye.)
- Ask your reader a question (ex. What is the difference between successful and failure?)
Complete this short drag-n-drop activity to see if you understand the types of hooks. - Part 2: Context: build background URL
This video is a wonderful summary of the whole introductory paragraph. However, please focus on the information given in Step 2: Give Background Information (minutes 1:25-2:29).
To make sure you understand how to do this, complete this short passage by filling in the blanks.
- Step 2: Give background information Interactive Content
- Part 3: Making your Thesis Page
As a reminder, your thesis statement is the last sentence of the introduction paragraph. It plainly states the purpose of your essay and what you will discuss in your paper. It is concise. The simple formula of a thesis is:
“My central message because (1st claim), (2nd claim), and (3rd claim).”
Ex. All eligible persons should get their COVID-19 vaccine because the vaccine keeps you healthy, stops the spread of the virus, and adds additional safeguard against variants like Delta and Omicron.
Be very careful when writing your thesis statement. You do want to have a weak one. Complete this short activity, Which thesis statement is the strongest? on how to avoid a weak thesis statement.
- Which thesis statement is the strongest? Interactive Content
- M2: Upload Introduction & Thesis Assignment
Now that you have all the information about the perfect introduction paragraph, it's now time to submit one! Some things to consider as you write:
- This paragraph should be 4-6 sentences in length.
- Grab the readers attention at the start! Use a hook!
- Set the context. Make sure the readers know what you are writing about.
- Write a strong thesis statement! It should be the last sentence.
Submit your introduction paragraph as a WORD document. The paragraph should be double-spaced, 12 pt. font., with your name and the date at the top of the page. Save your file as follows: "FirstName_LastName_IntoductionParagraph". If you submit your introduction paragraph any other way, it will not be accepted.
Look at the rubric below, to see how your paragraph will be assessed.
1
2
3
Timeliness
Paper is in on time.
Application of Content
Minimal or no evidence that information presented in the module is being processed and used
Some evidence that information presented in the module is being processed and used
Abundant evidence that information presented in the module is being processed and used
Writing Mechanics
Minimal effort to use capitalization, punctuation, and spelling correctly.
Attempts to use capitalization, punctuation, and spelling correctly.
Uses most capitalization, punctuation, and spelling correctly.
Vocabulary & Syntax
Vocabulary use and sentence structure impedes reader comprehension.
Occasional use of incorrect vocabulary and sentence structure.
Excellent use of vocabulary and sentence structure.
Share your topic and thesis with your classmates. Why did you choose this topic for your 5-paragraph essay?