5 Ways to Hook a Reader1. Background Information: Tell the

reader the information they need to know to understand the piece of writing.

2. Anecdote: a story – Engage the reader with a personal story.

3. Announcement: Make a grand announcement that will catch the reader’s attention.

4. News: Give the reader the who, what, when , where, and why of a story or essay.

5. Quotation: Start with a quote that will capture the reader’s attention.

BANNQ on a good HOOK!

Examples1. As we macarenaed into the

nineties, the overall culture of America started to change. The turn of the century was coming, and with that, the snowball of modern technology started to roll. (Compare/Contrast) Emily Phipps, 8th Grade

2. The leap from seventh to eighth grade sent me on a trip that I will never forget. Eighth grade is not a step up, it’s the while staircase. (Expository) Reed H., 8th Grade

Thesis statement is……your controlling idea for

your entire essay.…what all your sentences are about or to prove your thesis.…clear and focused.…is written in the third-person. DO NOT begin with “I believe”.…uses specific terms and vocabulary. Avoid vague wording.…not just a statement of fact.…and comes at the end of your first paragraph.

Things to consider in all writing pieces

1. Must have a purpose – “So What?”“What difference does it make?”2. An engaging hook – how you begin must capture the reader3. Supporting details – narratives tell a story, contain anecdotes - expository/persuasive – must include facts4. Explanation of details – explain to the reader how these details support your story or thesis.5. Must have a sense of closure – Is the piece finished?

Show Evidence in your writing

Use evidence based terms to begin your sentences.

_________________ because __________________

_______________, for instance,________________

The author said, “___________________________.”

According to the text, _______________________.

On page #, I noticed ________________________.