Today in class we talked about introductions in general and specifically as they relate to the rhetorical analysis.  Our discussion today was fruitful and below are some of the points that came up.

Introductions should:

  • Introduce the topic
  • Include a thesis statement.
  • Give background information (if necessary).
  • Grab the readers attention.

One student said that she starts her introductions with a more broad statement and then with each sentence she narrows her focus until she gets to her thesis.  I drew this as an upside down triangle:

Broader statements at top

Thesis (narrow statement) at bottom

Introdctions are important because:

  • They help set the tone for the rest of the paper (though tone may change).
  • They help guide the audience.
  • They set expectations for the rest of the paper.

Introductions of a rhetorical analysis should:

  • Include where the original source was published/printed/intended to be viewed.
  • Include how the analysis will be conducted.

Week 10 PP: You may want to view this power point.  It includes slides used on Monday and Wednesday this week.