Hooks
Hooks are used to grab the
reader's attention: a very important aspect of your writing! Whether you
are writing professionally or for your teacher, the last thing that you want to
happen is to have your writing put your reader to sleep.
There are many different
hooks which you may use:
A directly stated
thesis: This
is a common type of opening. After providing general background, narrow
your focus to a thesis statement that previews the essay that will follow.
Example: There are many jobs that are available in the movie industry
which receive little attention, but without the gaffer, the best boy, and the
gopher, a movie could not be produced.
A definition: This kind of introduction
works well in a paper that deals with an unfamiliar topic.
Example: You may suffer from xenophobia -- a fear of strangers or anybody
foreign or different.
A quotation: A beginning quotation, particularly
from an authority in the field, can effectively introduce ideas. Make
sure the quote clearly relates to the topic.
Example: As William Arthur Ward stated, "The good teacher
explains. The superior teacher demonstrates. The great teacher
inspires."
An anecdote or personal
experience: As
long as it clearly sets up your topic, and has a bearing on what will follow in
the essay, a short tale can be effective in grabbing your reader's attention.
An arresting statement: Sometimes you can jolt the reader
into attention by using content, language, or both. This works well if
your essay develops an unusual or extreme position.
Interesting details: Use to pique curiosity and
draw the reader into the paper.
A question: A provocative question can
entice the reader into the essay to find the answers.
You may also use current
events, historical or biographical facts, an opposite point of view, how your
own life was influenced, research findings, a plot summary, or any combination
of tactics, to grab your reader's attention.
Examples of openings:
Everyone thinks -----,
but...
Statistically, in America,
....
I remember what it was like
when...
What is ---?
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