Warm-up activity: keynote speech
Watch Steve Jobs’ intro to iphone keynote speech. Think about how this serves as a great introduction and what Steve Jobs is doing in this introduction.
Analyzing sample introduction
Now it’s time to look at written introductions. Have a look at the two sample introduction paragraphs (sample paragraphs). Try to identify what kinds of things are included in the introduction in the two paragraphs and compare/contrast the two paragraphs.
What to include in introductions
Now compare what you’ve listed with the points made in the PPT (slides 2-3). The PPT summarizes the components of an introduction of argumentative essays.
Good thesis statements vs. bad thesis statements
Work on the thesis statement handout. Can you identify why the sentences are considered as good or bad thesis statements?
Thesis statement checklist
Based on the observations from the previous activity, try to come up with check points for writing a good thesis statement. Compare your checklist with the one in slide 4 from the PPT.
Writing and revising thesis statements
It’s time for you to write a thesis statement. Write a clear thesis statement on the topic “investing in wind energy." Keep in mind the checklist you’ve just come up with. After you are finished writing, peer review it with your friends. After you receive some feedback from your peers, revise the thesis statements and make it clearer!
Homework: Submit at least three (3) possible argumentative/research topics by Thursday night at midnight using this online form.
