Characteristics of the Introductory Essay

First Hour Thinking
An effective introductory essay will......

intrigue the reader
show the voice of the author
have an anchor that connects to the author's life
illustrate thoughtful word choice and purposeful sentence structure
introduce aspects of your personality to the reader through the use of detail
be free of grammatical and spelling errors
consist of no more than 650 words
shift the ground upon which the reader stands

Third Hour Thinking

An effective introductory essay will…..

Demonstrate  proper grammar, usage and mechanics

Use a variety of sentence lengths

Express the author’s voice

Engage the readers

Use appropriate vocabulary and purposeful diction

Show and tell through the use of detail

Utilize a structure that is organic to its purpose

Introduce the author reaching beyond surface detail

Establish a connection between the reader and the author

Convey some type of emotion

Leave the audience wanting to know more or “forever changed”

Consist of 650 words

Illustrate creativity and individuality

Fourth Hour Thinking

An effective introductory essay will…..

Catch the reader’s attention

Entertain the reader

Show the author’s voice

Describe the author

Be organized with a structure that is creative and organic to the purpose and content

Evoke the emotion of the audience

Tell a unique story

Give insight into the author’s life

Be personal

Be free of grammatical and mechanical errors

Consist of 650 words

Not be a list

Be memorable and not easily forgotten

Sixth Hour Thinking

An effective introductory essay will…..

Be imaginative

Display your qualities

Show your creativity

Make the reader feel as though they know you

Be captivating

Reflect your voice

Break rules

Use proper grammar, usage and mechanics

Consist of 650 words

Leave the reader shook

Show your personality

Shows individuality

Have an anchor or context