Paragraphs
Paragraphs – a group of sentences that together convey a shared purpose structured around the same topic. Introductory Paragraphs (Introductions) Hook (Lead / Opening Statement) – can begin with the title Anecdotal (Brief story to set the mood and lead the reader into the topic) Ex] A century marked by its consumerism and materialism, the 80s were a decade of bold style and permed hair, coining it as one of the most eclectic decades of fashion. Along with this idea of individual expression shining vicariously through puffed sleeves and electric colors there were also upheld ideals of political conservatism. For many people the symbol of the decade was the “yuppie”: a baby boomer with a college education, good paying job, and expensive taste. Many people brushed off yuppies as materialistic and self centered. Surveys indeed have shown that these people were in fact more concerned with making money and purchasing consumer goods compared to their parents and grandparents. This is not an indication that yuppies were in fact shallow and superficial, they were a part of a generation of young men and women who were burdened with anxiety and self doubt. Yes they were “successful” but they were unsure if they were happy. Query Based (Question that brings the reader to the topic - avoid second person POV “you”) Ex. What were the 80s known for? Thesis Statements (the purpose of a piece of writing – usually one sentence in length, but can be longer depending on the purpose – must be something that is arguable) Assertion (claim - a subject + a “so what” about the subject) Ex. The 80s were known for their political conservatism creating the “yuppie.” Fact (empirically verifiable but often difficult to argue extensively about - better used as evidence to support a claim)
