V5 11 May 2022

• Engels
• Middelbare school
• vwo
• Leerjaar 5

V5 - English

11 May 2022

Upcoming lessons

Writing: writing an argumentative essay
Writing test:
Monday 30 May

After that, we'll focus more on reading exam texts. 

Test

- Digital, on PC.

- You can use a dictionary during the test.

- You'll need to hand in an outline and the essay digitally.

Now:

Give feedback on each other's statements + outlines.

• Is the thesis statement debatable, does it pick a side and is it focused?
• Also take a look at the outline: is there a clear essay structure? 
• Are the arguments good?

Writing an introduction

The main goals of an introduction are to:

• Catch your reader’s attention.
  
• Give background on your topic.
  
• Present your thesis—the central point of your essay.

How to write an introduction? 

Step 1: hook your reader 

• Your first sentence sets the tone for the entire essay. 
• Start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.
• Avoid overly broad claims or plain statements of fact.

How to write an introduction? 

Examples

Weak hook: Braille was an extremely important invention.

Strong hook: The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

The second hook is stronger because it doesn't just state a dry fact, but it states why this topic is important. 

How to write an introduction? 

Examples

Weak hook: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is a famous book from the nineteenth century.

Strong hook: Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement.

Instead of just stating a fact that the reader already knows, the improved hook here tells us about the mainstream interpretation of the book, implying that this essay will offer a different interpretation.

How to write an introduction?

Step 2: give background information

Give your reader the context they need to understand your topic and argument. This could include:

• Historical, geographical, or social context
  
• An outline of the debate you’re addressing
  
• A summary of relevant theories or research about the topic
  
• Definitions of key terms

How to write an introduction?

Step 3: present your thesis statement

Introduction checklist

• My first sentence is engaging and relevant.
  
• I have introduced the topic with necessary background information.
  
• I have defined any important terms.
  
• My thesis statement clearly presents my main point or argument.
  
• Everything in the introduction is relevant to the main body of the essay.

Homework Monday:

Before the lesson on Monday, you must have finished:

The introductory paragraph of your practice essay

Bring it with you to class!