Introductory Paragraph Worksheet

A step by step guide to forming a thesis and introductory paragraph.

1) Below, cut and paste the topic sentences for all of your body paragraphs:
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2) Read all of the sentences in a row. Highlight key word(s) that most concisely
identify the main points. What one word or two words would best describe what
each paragraph is specifically covering?
3) To create a strong introductory paragraph you will need to:
a. Lead-in/Hook: Introduce me to the subject matter/tell me what you are
writing about (Topic).
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b. Thesis: State your specific theory or stance on your topic based on what you
have learned in your research. This is your thesis statement.
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c. Thesis Map: Briefly list/summarize/overview the evidence that you will
use to prove your stance (use the key words your highlighted to overview
what your paper will go into in depth)
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For specific examples and detailed explanations of how to write a strong thesis statement
(the most important part of your paper), visit this webpage:
http://writing2.richmond.edu/writing/wweb/thesis.html.