AW Module 3

Module 3

Essentials for Academic Writing

In this module, you will learn

The purpose of the introductory paragraph

The contents of the introductory paragraph

Academic language: Punctuation

What isthe purpose of the introductory paragraph?

STOP AND THINK

What is the purpose of the introductory paragraph?

The introduction of you paper provides the reader with a comprehensive overview. It informs the reader of what lies ahead. The topics and ideas that are discussed in the paper or essay become known. In the case of the reaction paper, make sure that you name the work you are reacting to along with the writer.

VIDEO

Watch this video on the introductory paragraph of academic essays

THE CONTENTS OF THE INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH

Brevity

Brevity as a characteristic of the intro

• Think of the intro paragraph as a condensed version of the essay that follows
• Avoid boring or inundating the reader and being repetitive: the rest of the essay is for the details
• Do give a brief summary or overview of your essay despite avoiding details

Your Viewpoint

• Your initial reaction to this piece of work is an integral part of the introduction. Therefore, you should mention this.
• You can mention your reaction in terms of the paper's structure
• You can mention your reaction in terms of how you saw the paper's flow and development
• You can mention your reaction to the thesis of the paper itself

The Thesis Statement

The thesis statement for a reaction paper must be strong. You have to get the reader to agree with your opinion. Quotes from influential people or personal experiences can help. Therefore, prepare the arguments in advance so that your essay gains in strength and credibility. In the end , it will be more persuasive.

A thesis statement for a reaction essay indicates your primary response to the prompt. Whether that reaction is surprise, like, dislike, outrage, or any other response, you should clearly indicate the reason for your response.

Well-written Thesis Statements

At the end of the introduction, you should write the thesis statement. Let's consider a short reaction paper example:

J.K. Rowling has written a perfect piece for children of all ages, taking a particular focus on adolescents. The franchise is ranked # 1 on the most profitable film series with $ 7.7 billion in worldwide profit. "Harry Potter" is a living confirmation of the idea that the success of a film does not depend on the director's fame, but on the attitude to the case, to what he creates.

Ian McEwan's 'Nutshell' is a literary marvel, a tale as unique as it is gripping. In this paper, we step into the intriguing world crafted by McEwan within the confines of a mother's womb. 'Nutshell' offers a fresh perspective, told through the eyes of an unborn child, who becomes an unwitting observer of an intricate plot. As we dive into the depths of this remarkable narrative, we unravel the complexities of life, love, and betrayal from an entirely new vantage point, inviting you to explore the boundaries of storytelling.

The Hook

In the introduction, you should show the reader that you have excellent intellectual ability--you know what you are talking about. Express your own opinions on the topic. Find interesting and little-known facts about the work, then you will be able to show the reader that you have done good research and worked on your essay. Consider adding a hook. A hook is a writing device that catches your readers attention and interest.

The Hook

You can engage your audience right from the first sentences by using a variety of effective techniques:

Posing a Question: Begin your paper with a thought-provoking question that directly relates to the content you're about to discuss. For instance, "Have you ever wondered how a single idea can change the course of history?"

The Hook

Here is another engaging and effective technique:

Using Emotional Appeal: Start your paper by tapping into your readers' emotions. For example, "Imagine a world where hope and despair coexist in a delicate balance, just like the characters in the story we're about to explore."

The Hook

Here is another engaging and effective technique:

Using an Uncommon Fact: Start with an intriguing and lesser-known fact related to your topic. For example, "Did you know that octopuses have three hearts and blue blood? Much like these remarkable creatures, the subject of our discussion reveals hidden complexities."

The Hook

Here is another engaging and effective technique:

Defining the Key Term: Begin by providing a clear and concise definition of a central term or concept in your paper. For instance, "In the realm of environmental science, biodiversity is more than just a buzzword; it represents the intricate web of life on our planet."

SUMMARY

• Your introductory paragraph is an extremely important part of your essay. It is the gateway to your essay. It lets the reader know what you think about the topic you are reacting to. These are essential to your introductory paragraph:

• Brevity - condense the essence of your essay's ideas.

• Your Viewpoint - make this visible in terms of various aspects of the paper you are reacting to.

• Your Thesis Statement - This should be strong, clear, and persuasive as an argument.

• The Hook - Catch your reader's attention and interest.

Academic language: PUNCTUATION

Punctuation is important

Punctuation may affect the meaning of a sentence. Notice how comma use affects meaning here:

1 In high-risk patients, who attain large benefits from treatment, expensive drugs may be cost effective. 2 In high-risk patients who attain large benefits from treatment, expensive drugs may be cost effective.

Punctuation is important

The reader may also be confused if the clarity of the text is affected by the way punctuation is used. The following is an example of a sentence that goes on for too long.

There is also a problem with the sales, despite the attractive low prices, sales are heavily dependent on the season.

There is also a problem with the sales. Despite the attractive low prices, sales are heavily dependent on the season.

Punctuation is important

COMPREHENSION CHECK

Question 1

Question 2

Question 3

REFERENCES

Geyte, E. V. (2013). Writing: learn to write better academic essays. Folse, Keth, Pugh, Tison. (2020). Great Writing. Cengage Learning. Shiach, Don. (2007) How to write essays. Spring Hill House. Writing a Response or Reaction Paper, https://www.hunter.cuny.edu/rwc/handout/the-writing-process-1/invention/Writing-a-Response-or-Reaction-Paper/Accessed July 16, 2024 How to write a reaction paper, https://www.studybay.com/blog/sample-reaction-paper/Accessed July 17, 2024 Basic Punctuation Rules, https://www.apu.edu/live-data/files/288/basic-punctuation-rules-p/Accessed July 18, 2024