Writing Argument Essay Introductions
Grade 8th Grade · ELA · 30 min
What's Included
Learning Objective
I can write an introduction for an argument essay that includes a hook, background information, and a clear thesis statement.
Reading Passage
Writing an Essay Introduction
A strong introduction is vital for any argument essay. It guides your reader into the topic and clearly presents your main point. Every effective introduction needs three key parts: a hook, background information, and a clear thesis statement.
Begin with a hook to immediately grab your reader's attention. This might be a surprising fact, a thought-provoking question, or a short story related to your topic. The hook's goal is to make the reader curious. For example, if writing about social media, you could ask, "How much time do you spend on your phone daily?"
Next, provide concise background information. This gives readers enough context to understand the issue without too much detail. Briefly explain the general topic or the debate, assuming your reader may be unfamiliar with it.
Finally, the most important part is your thesis statement, usually the last sentence. This sentence clearly states your main argument or the position you will defend. A strong thesis is specific, debatable, and tells the reader exactly what your essay will prove. It acts as the central claim your body paragraphs will support.
By crafting these three elements carefully, your introduction will effectively set the stage for your argument and build a solid foundation for your essay.
Guided Notes
3 key concepts
- 1
Every effective essay introduction needs three key parts: a hook, background information, and a clear thesis statement.
- 2
A hook is used to immediately grab your reader's attention, while background information provides context for the topic.
- 3
The most important part of an introduction is the thesis statement, which clearly states your main argument and is usually the last sentence.
Practice Questions
3 questions · Short answer
Exit Ticket
Quick comprehension check
“Write an introduction for an argument essay on the topic: 'Should middle school students be allowed to use cell phones during the school day?' Ensure your introduction includes a hook, background information about the topic, and a clear thesis statement, as explained in the reading passage.”
Complete Lesson Package
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