Assignment Prompt & Instructions
– ## EA045.docx
**## EA045.docx**
**ALL OF THE FOLLOWING ASSIGNMENTS REQUIRE ONLY A FEW SENTENCES OR PARAGRAPHS TO COMPLETE**
**Part 1 (045)**
ASSIGNMENT 1.3: ✍️Reflection Journal #1: Writing Experiences (ear) Week 4
**Assignment Instructions**
**Reflection Journal #1:**
Reflection is an essential part of the learning process. It encourages us to become more self-aware about our knowledge or lack of it; it helps us remember what we have learned so we can make improvements. When we reflect, it allows us to see our growth and check our progress, which can lead to a sense of accomplishment. The journey through reflection helps to make evident what is needed to continue to grow and learn.
[**Reflective Writing Tips**](https://lit.libguides.com/reflective-practice-tips/writing)
**Assignment Focus**
After absorbing the learning resources on using AI, for our first reflection journal, we want you to reflect on how best to use Grammarly and other AI tools ethically,
**OR** you can reflect on your previous experiences with writing in school. Whichever topic you choose, try to reflect deeply on your experiences.
**Instructions**
In a single paragraph, answer all four (4) questions for whichever topic you have chosen in an MLA-formatted Word document. Attach that Word document for this assignment submission.
**Questions for Ethical Use of AI**
1. Should students use AI in academic writing? Explain why you feel that way.
2. How often do you use AI tools? Give an example of what you use AI tools for.
3. Are you using AI tools to enhance your understanding or to bypass learning? Describe how you use it to do this.
4. Do you feel that using AI tools influences your ability to think independently and creatively? Explain why you feel that way.
**Questions for Previous Writing Experiences**
1. What strengths have you discovered in your writing? Give an example of this.
2. What challenges have you encountered in academic writing? Describe how you have worked to overcome them.
3. How has feedback from instructors or peers influenced your writing process and development? Give an example of this.
4. In what ways has writing helped you express ideas or clarify your thoughts in other areas of your academic or personal life? Explain.
· Any new attempts will be marked as late.
**Description**
Reflection is an essential part of the learning process. It encourages us to become more self-aware about our knowledge or lack of it; it helps us remember what we have learned so we can make improvements. When we reflect, it allows us to see our growth and check our progress, which can lead to a sense of accomplishment. The journey through reflection helps to make evident what is needed to continue to grow and learn. We will reflect regularly in this course.
**Part 2 (200 words)**
**ASSIGNMENT 2.3: ✍️Reflection Journal #2 – Fixed or growth mindset?**
**Reflection Journal #2: Growth Mindset**
Reflection is an essential part of the learning process. It encourages us to become more self-aware about our knowledge or lack of it; it helps us remember what we have learned so we can make improvements. When we reflect, it allows us to see our growth and check our progress, which can lead to a sense of accomplishment. The journey through reflection helps to make evident what is needed to continue to grow and learn.
[**Reflective Writing Tips**](https://lit.libguides.com/reflective-practice-tips/writing)
**Assignment Focus:**
What is your mindset? How can you put that knowledge to use in this class?
**Instructions:**
**Step 1. Self-Assessment: What is your current mindset?**
Now that you have learned what a growth mindset and a fixed mindset are, take
**one** of these online quizzes:
· at
[https://www.idrlabs.com/growth-mindset-fixed-mindset/test.php](https://www.idrlabs.com/growth-mindset-fixed-mindset/test.php) (
_move the slider to answer each question, then click Next_)
·
**or** [https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/fixed-mindset-vs-growth-mindset-quiz](https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/fixed-mindset-vs-growth-mindset-quiz)
·
**or** [https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/administrative/women/mindset-quiz.pdf](https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/administrative/women/mindset-quiz.pdf)
to see what mindset you currently have.
Take a screenshot or an image of the results and upload it here to receive credit.
**Step 2. Write and Reflect: How can you use a growth mindset in this course?**
Write (in a Microsoft Word document using MLA layout) and submit a four-sentence paragraph that has a very specific structure using what you have learned by watching the videos, taking the self-assessment and quiz, and reading the articles about
_growth mindset;_ summarize and show critical thinking and comprehension skills about what you have read, seen, and heard about
_growth mindset_.
**Sentence 1:** Give a short definition of a growth mindset.
**Use your own words.** Do not copy it from anywhere.
**Sentence 2:** Tell me which mindset you have currently.
**Sentence 3:** Give an example of something you have said or done that gives evidence of the mindset you claimed in Sentence 2.
**Sentence 4:** Describe one thing that you can do this semester to show growth, no matter which mindset you currently have. Use one of these suggestions from
[https://www.futurelearn.com/info/blog/general/develop-growth-mindset](https://www.futurelearn.com/info/blog/general/develop-growth-mindset) to help guide your ideas.
**Part 3**
**ASSIGNMENT 3.1: 📝Outlining to Write Body Paragraphs**
**Using Outlines to Plan Body Paragraphs Assignment**
Body paragraphs are an essential part of writing an essay. Let's practice planning and creating some, and use this opportunity to showcase your writing skills!
Body Paragraphs – 7-9 sentences minimum
·
Topic Sentence – states the topic, purpose, and point of the paragraph; the controlling idea.
·
Supporting Details (2-3 supporting ideas minimum) – explain, develop, illustrate; provide evidence and examples – with transitions to show the connections in your organization
·
Conclusion Sentence – summarize your point and transition to the next paragraph.
**_AI Reminder:_** _Review the English department's AI policy located in the syllabus and at the top of the Content area of Blackboard._
_**AI should not be used to write any part of this assignment — I want your own thoughts.**_
**INSTRUCTIONS:**
**_Complete the narrative body paragraph example and one other of your choice._**
_You will complete two (2) body paragraphs to submit in an MLA-formatted Word document._
[**Example Completed Paragraph**](https://forsythtech-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/tpowell_forsythtech_edu/Edunm8NSy_RChpItAAWA7HsBw4PXfKz3NadeElr92mVeZQ?e=3iieeN)
**A. Compare/Contrast Paragraph**
Purpose: to show the similarities or differences between 2 things; to inform
**Step 1**: Choose your topics to compare or contrast.
·
**TOPIC OPTIONS**: 2 video games, 2 book genres, 2 music styles or artists, 2 sports or teams, or 2 superheroes
**Step 2**: Write a topic sentence that includes both topics, your purpose (comparison or contrast), and your point about them.
**Step 3**: Create an outline to plan your paragraph. List all similarities or differences between the two; add specific details, potential examples, data, evidence, and explanations.
**Step 4**: Write a draft of your paragraph. Use a logical order and confirm that the details are relevant and specific. Make sure that you include transitions to show the relationships between your details, like
_similarly, like, both, however, although,_ or
_unlike_. The conclusion should restate the significance of your point.
**Step 5**: Include a photo or image that relates to the point of your paragraph.
**B. Cause/Effect Paragraph**
Purpose: to show the reasons or results of an event; to inform
**Step 1**: Choose your topic.
·
**TOPIC OPTIONS**: the reasons or results of buying a car, moving to a new place, beginning a new job, traveling to a specific place, or playing or watching a sport.
**Step 2**: Write a topic sentence that includes the topic, the purpose, and your point about it.
**Step 3**: Create an outline to plan your paragraph. List all potential reasons, results, motives, impacts, consequences, or intentions; add specific details, expert opinions, potential examples, evidence, and explanations.
**Step 4**: Write a draft of your paragraph. Make certain that your explanations clearly link reasons and results and include sufficient specific details explain in detail. Include transitions to show the relationships between your details, like
_because, since, as a result, therefore_, or
_consequently_. The conclusion should emphasize your point.
**Step 5**: Include a photo or image that relates to the point of your paragraph.
**C. Argument Paragraph**
Purpose: to make a point and take a stand; to persuade
**Step 1**: Choose your topic.
·
**TOPIC OPTIONS**: your opinion on… cell phones in theaters, banned books, violence in video games or movies, reinstating the draft, or mandatory volunteer hours for high schoolers
**Step 2**: Write a topic sentence that states the subject and takes a stand (your claim).
**Step 3**: Create an outline to plan your paragraph. List all possible supporting evidence: specific points, potential reasons, valid motives, impacts, or consequences; add specific details, potential examples, evidence, and explanations.
**Step 4**: Write a draft of your paragraph. Make sure to include any necessary explanations of the problem being argued, all serious or obvious reasons, and sufficient specific details. Links between your reasons and details should be clear and logical; include transitions to show the relationships between your details, like
_for example, in addition, clearly shows,_ or
_furthermore_. Your concluding sentence should stress the reasoning for why your point is important (your warrant).
**Step 5**: Include a photo or image that relates to the point of your paragraph.
**D. Narrative Paragraph**
Purpose: move the story forward and deepen the reader's understanding of the characters and themes.
**Step 1:** Choose your topic.
·
**TOPIC OPTIONS:** a unique event from your life that has a lesson, your most exciting outing/trip/night, a time you were lost but found your way, the first time you attempted something new, your experience with a family tradition, a time you went camping, a time you traveled to a new place
**Step 2:** Write a topic sentence that introduces the main idea or event of the paragraph and connects to the purpose of the narrative.
**Step 3**: Create an outline to plan your paragraph. List all possible supporting details: specific points in time, sensory descriptions (sight, sound, touch, smell), emotions or feelings, or dialogue; add potential examples, evidence, and explanations.
**Step 4**: Write a draft of your paragraph. Be sure to provide any necessary background information or a brief transition from the previous paragraph to help the reader understand time, place, or changes in the scene. Give the event or action details that describe what happens in the story and provide vivid and specific sensory details to show rather than tell. Add any dialogue if necessary. Any inner thoughts and feelings should reveal the narrator’s or character’s emotions and reactions. Maybe offer insight into the significance or meaning of this event. Make sure that you include transitions to show the relationships between your details, like
_later, next, then, meanwhile, after, before_, or
_as_. Your concluding sentence should wrap up the paragraph and may hint at what’s coming next.
**Step 5**: Include a photo or image that relates to the point of your paragraph.
**Part 4**
ASSIGNMENT 4.1: 📝Introductions in Essays
**Assignment Instructions**
**Writing an Interesting Introduction Paragraph**
The first paragraph of your essay should introduce your reader to the main topic. This introduction serves to outline the general subject matter of your essay before transitioning to a more specific thesis statement, which presents the main argument or point of the essay. Think of the introduction as a roadmap that guides your reader through your ideas.
You should lead into your thesis and generate reader interest by starting your introduction paragraph with a hook sentence(s) that will grab the reader’s attention about your topic. A hook provides a way to get your reader interested in your topic from the very first sentence. You don’t want to jump directly into the point of your essay; instead, you should give your reader a chance to warm up to the topic by providing something interesting to get their attention.
Next, provide your reader with a bridge between the hook and thesis to help them make the connection between your hook sentence(s) and your thesis statement. The bridge is also a part of your introduction. On one side of the bridge are your hook sentence(s), and on the other is your thesis statement. It helps you span the gap between your attention-getting hook and your thesis statement by gradually leading your reader to the point of your essay by giving relevant information to generate interest in your topic.
Understand What Makes a Good Hook:
Before beginning, read about different types of hooks that can be used in introductory paragraphs. Choose one to try:
·
_An explanation_: Describe any background information your reader may need to understand your topic
·
_A problem_: Explain what the problem is and why it is a difficulty
·
_A misconception_: Clarify something that may be misunderstood about your topic
·
_A vivid description_: Paint a picture with words to set the scene for the essay.
·
_An anecdote_: Share a brief, personal, or fictional story to draw readers in.
**_AI Reminder:_** _Review the English department's AI policy located in the syllabus and at the top of the Content area of Blackboard._
_**AI should not be used to write any part of this assignment — I want your own thoughts.**_
**Instructions:**
Follow these steps in an MLA-formatted Word document.
**Step 1: Choose a Topic: This should be at the top of your document, like a title.**
Select one of the following essay topics for your introduction paragraph:
· The importance of mental health awareness among college students
· The impact of procrastination on grades
· The role of social media in shaping public opinion
· The benefits of learning a second language
**Step 2: Write Your Hook: Include the rough draft of your hook under your topic title.**
Write a hook for your introduction paragraph. Make sure the hook aligns with the essay topic you’ve chosen and is designed to pique the interest of your audience. It should be at least four (4) sentences long.
**Step 3: Expand into an Introduction Paragraph: This will follow under the rough draft of your hook.**
After crafting your hook, build your introduction paragraph around it. It should include:
· Your
**hook** and any
**background information**. Revise your rough draft from Step 3.
· The
**bridge** connecting your hook to your thesis statement sets up the essay.
· The
**thesis statement**: End your introduction with a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main argument or purpose of the essay.
Consider these questions when writing the draft of your introduction paragraph.
Reflect on your work for clarity, impact, and coherence:
· Does the hook effectively engage readers?
· Is the background information relevant without being overly detailed?
· Does the bridge clearly show the connection between your hook and the thesis?
· Does the thesis statement clearly convey the essay’s purpose?
**Step 4: Self-Assessment: This should be documented under the draft of your introduction paragraph.**
1. Having completed the writing process steps on your introduction paragraph, please self-evaluate your performance using the
**Introduction Paragraph Grading Rubric** attached below. Document your score and justify why you believe you should earn those points.
**Attach BOTH your completed rubric AND your Introduction Paragraph Word document for grading.**
**Tips for Success**
· Experiment with different types of hooks to find what works best for your topic.
· Avoid clichés or overly general statements—aim for originality and specificity.
· Consider your audience and tailor your hook to their interests and knowledge level.
**Part 5**
**ASSIGNMENT 4.3: ✍️Reflection Journal #4: Module 4 Experiences**
**Assignment Instructions**
**Reflection Journal #4: Annotation and/or Writing an Introduction Paragraph**
Reflection is an essential part of the learning process. It encourages us to become more self-aware about our knowledge or lack of it; it helps us remember what we have learned so we can make improvements. When we reflect, it allows us to see our growth and check our progress, which can lead to a sense of accomplishment. The journey through reflection helps to make evident what is needed to continue to grow and learn.
[**Reflective Writing Tips**](https://lit.libguides.com/reflective-practice-tips/writing)
**Assignment Focus:**
When we reflect, the key is to analyze the experience by asking yourself why the experience went the way it did, what its impact was on you, and how you plan to use this new knowledge. Think about your experience with annotation and/or writing an introduction paragraph to better understand what you learned from those experiences.
**Instructions:**
In an
MLA-formatted Word document, write a single paragraph reflecting on your experience by answering the following questions in as much detail as possible.
1. Describe your experience with annotation or writing an introduction paragraph.
2. What are your feelings and thoughts on the experience?
3. Explain what went well and also what went wrong.
4. Why do you think those things went well? Why did the other things go wrong?
5. What did you learn from this experience? What would you do differently?
6. What is your plan for the next time you need to annotate and/or write an introduction paragraph?
**## EA045.docx**
**ALL OF THE FOLLOWING ASSIGNMENTS REQUIRE ONLY A FEW SENTENCES OR PARAGRAPHS TO COMPLETE**
**Part 1 (045)**
ASSIGNMENT 1.3: ✍️Reflection Journal #1: Writing Experiences (ear) Week 4
**Assignment Instructions**
**Reflection Journal #1:**
Reflection is an essential part of the learning process. It encourages us to become more self-aware about our knowledge or lack of it; it helps us remember what we have learned so we can make improvements. When we reflect, it allows us to see our growth and check our progress, which can lead to a sense of accomplishment. The journey through reflection helps to make evident what is needed to continue to grow and learn.
[**Reflective Writing Tips**](https://lit.libguides.com/reflective-practice-tips/writing)
**Assignment Focus**
After absorbing the learning resources on using AI, for our first reflection journal, we want you to reflect on how best to use Grammarly and other AI tools ethically,
**OR** you can reflect on your previous experiences with writing in school. Whichever topic you choose, try to reflect deeply on your experiences.
**Instructions**
In a single paragraph, answer all four (4) questions for whichever topic you have chosen in an MLA-formatted Word document. Attach that Word document for this assignment submission.
**Questions for Ethical Use of AI**
1. Should students use AI in academic writing? Explain why you feel that way.
2. How often do you use AI tools? Give an example of what you use AI tools for.
3. Are you using AI tools to enhance your understanding or to bypass learning? Describe how you use it to do this.
4. Do you feel that using AI tools influences your ability to think independently and creatively? Explain why you feel that way.
**Questions for Previous Writing Experiences**
1. What strengths have you discovered in your writing? Give an example of this.
2. What challenges have you encountered in academic writing? Describe how you have worked to overcome them.
3. How has feedback from instructors or peers influenced your writing process and development? Give an example of this.
4. In what ways has writing helped you express ideas or clarify your thoughts in other areas of your academic or personal life? Explain.
· Any new attempts will be marked as late.
**Description**
Reflection is an essential part of the learning process. It encourages us to become more self-aware about our knowledge or lack of it; it helps us remember what we have learned so we can make improvements. When we reflect, it allows us to see our growth and check our progress, which can lead to a sense of accomplishment. The journey through reflection helps to make evident what is needed to continue to grow and learn. We will reflect regularly in this course.
**Part 2 (200 words)**
**ASSIGNMENT 2.3: ✍️Reflection Journal #2 – Fixed or growth mindset?**
**Reflection Journal #2: Growth Mindset**
Reflection is an essential part of the learning process. It encourages us to become more self-aware about our knowledge or lack of it; it helps us remember what we have learned so we can make improvements. When we reflect, it allows us to see our growth and check our progress, which can lead to a sense of accomplishment. The journey through reflection helps to make evident what is needed to continue to grow and learn.
[**Reflective Writing Tips**](https://lit.libguides.com/reflective-practice-tips/writing)
**Assignment Focus:**
What is your mindset? How can you put that knowledge to use in this class?
**Instructions:**
**Step 1. Self-Assessment: What is your current mindset?**
Now that you have learned what a growth mindset and a fixed mindset are, take
**one** of these online quizzes:
· at
[https://www.idrlabs.com/growth-mindset-fixed-mindset/test.php](https://www.idrlabs.com/growth-mindset-fixed-mindset/test.php) (
_move the slider to answer each question, then click Next_)
·
**or** [https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/fixed-mindset-vs-growth-mindset-quiz](https://biglifejournal.com/blogs/blog/fixed-mindset-vs-growth-mindset-quiz)
·
**or** [https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/administrative/women/mindset-quiz.pdf](https://www.americanbar.org/content/dam/aba/administrative/women/mindset-quiz.pdf)
to see what mindset you currently have.
Take a screenshot or an image of the results and upload it here to receive credit.
**Step 2. Write and Reflect: How can you use a growth mindset in this course?**
Write (in a Microsoft Word document using MLA layout) and submit a four-sentence paragraph that has a very specific structure using what you have learned by watching the videos, taking the self-assessment and quiz, and reading the articles about
_growth mindset;_ summarize and show critical thinking and comprehension skills about what you have read, seen, and heard about
_growth mindset_.
**Sentence 1:** Give a short definition of a growth mindset.
**Use your own words.** Do not copy it from anywhere.
**Sentence 2:** Tell me which mindset you have currently.
**Sentence 3:** Give an example of something you have said or done that gives evidence of the mindset you claimed in Sentence 2.
**Sentence 4:** Describe one thing that you can do this semester to show growth, no matter which mindset you currently have. Use one of these suggestions from
[https://www.futurelearn.com/info/blog/general/develop-growth-mindset](https://www.futurelearn.com/info/blog/general/develop-growth-mindset) to help guide your ideas.
**Part 3**
**ASSIGNMENT 3.1: 📝Outlining to Write Body Paragraphs**
**Using Outlines to Plan Body Paragraphs Assignment**
Body paragraphs are an essential part of writing an essay. Let's practice planning and creating some, and use this opportunity to showcase your writing skills!
Body Paragraphs – 7-9 sentences minimum
·
Topic Sentence – states the topic, purpose, and point of the paragraph; the controlling idea.
·
Supporting Details (2-3 supporting ideas minimum) – explain, develop, illustrate; provide evidence and examples – with transitions to show the connections in your organization
·
Conclusion Sentence – summarize your point and transition to the next paragraph.
**_AI Reminder:_** _Review the English department's AI policy located in the syllabus and at the top of the Content area of Blackboard._
_**AI should not be used to write any part of this assignment — I want your own thoughts.**_
**INSTRUCTIONS:**
**_Complete the narrative body paragraph example and one other of your choice._**
_You will complete two (2) body paragraphs to submit in an MLA-formatted Word document._
[**Example Completed Paragraph**](https://forsythtech-my.sharepoint.com/:w:/g/personal/tpowell_forsythtech_edu/Edunm8NSy_RChpItAAWA7HsBw4PXfKz3NadeElr92mVeZQ?e=3iieeN)
**A. Compare/Contrast Paragraph**
Purpose: to show the similarities or differences between 2 things; to inform
**Step 1**: Choose your topics to compare or contrast.
·
**TOPIC OPTIONS**: 2 video games, 2 book genres, 2 music styles or artists, 2 sports or teams, or 2 superheroes
**Step 2**: Write a topic sentence that includes both topics, your purpose (comparison or contrast), and your point about them.
**Step 3**: Create an outline to plan your paragraph. List all similarities or differences between the two; add specific details, potential examples, data, evidence, and explanations.
**Step 4**: Write a draft of your paragraph. Use a logical order and confirm that the details are relevant and specific. Make sure that you include transitions to show the relationships between your details, like
_similarly, like, both, however, although,_ or
_unlike_. The conclusion should restate the significance of your point.
**Step 5**: Include a photo or image that relates to the point of your paragraph.
**B. Cause/Effect Paragraph**
Purpose: to show the reasons or results of an event; to inform
**Step 1**: Choose your topic.
·
**TOPIC OPTIONS**: the reasons or results of buying a car, moving to a new place, beginning a new job, traveling to a specific place, or playing or watching a sport.
**Step 2**: Write a topic sentence that includes the topic, the purpose, and your point about it.
**Step 3**: Create an outline to plan your paragraph. List all potential reasons, results, motives, impacts, consequences, or intentions; add specific details, expert opinions, potential examples, evidence, and explanations.
**Step 4**: Write a draft of your paragraph. Make certain that your explanations clearly link reasons and results and include sufficient specific details explain in detail. Include transitions to show the relationships between your details, like
_because, since, as a result, therefore_, or
_consequently_. The conclusion should emphasize your point.
**Step 5**: Include a photo or image that relates to the point of your paragraph.
**C. Argument Paragraph**
Purpose: to make a point and take a stand; to persuade
**Step 1**: Choose your topic.
·
**TOPIC OPTIONS**: your opinion on… cell phones in theaters, banned books, violence in video games or movies, reinstating the draft, or mandatory volunteer hours for high schoolers
**Step 2**: Write a topic sentence that states the subject and takes a stand (your claim).
**Step 3**: Create an outline to plan your paragraph. List all possible supporting evidence: specific points, potential reasons, valid motives, impacts, or consequences; add specific details, potential examples, evidence, and explanations.
**Step 4**: Write a draft of your paragraph. Make sure to include any necessary explanations of the problem being argued, all serious or obvious reasons, and sufficient specific details. Links between your reasons and details should be clear and logical; include transitions to show the relationships between your details, like
_for example, in addition, clearly shows,_ or
_furthermore_. Your concluding sentence should stress the reasoning for why your point is important (your warrant).
**Step 5**: Include a photo or image that relates to the point of your paragraph.
**D. Narrative Paragraph**
Purpose: move the story forward and deepen the reader's understanding of the characters and themes.
**Step 1:** Choose your topic.
·
**TOPIC OPTIONS:** a unique event from your life that has a lesson, your most exciting outing/trip/night, a time you were lost but found your way, the first time you attempted something new, your experience with a family tradition, a time you went camping, a time you traveled to a new place
**Step 2:** Write a topic sentence that introduces the main idea or event of the paragraph and connects to the purpose of the narrative.
**Step 3**: Create an outline to plan your paragraph. List all possible supporting details: specific points in time, sensory descriptions (sight, sound, touch, smell), emotions or feelings, or dialogue; add potential examples, evidence, and explanations.
**Step 4**: Write a draft of your paragraph. Be sure to provide any necessary background information or a brief transition from the previous paragraph to help the reader understand time, place, or changes in the scene. Give the event or action details that describe what happens in the story and provide vivid and specific sensory details to show rather than tell. Add any dialogue if necessary. Any inner thoughts and feelings should reveal the narrator’s or character’s emotions and reactions. Maybe offer insight into the significance or meaning of this event. Make sure that you include transitions to show the relationships between your details, like
_later, next, then, meanwhile, after, before_, or
_as_. Your concluding sentence should wrap up the paragraph and may hint at what’s coming next.
**Step 5**: Include a photo or image that relates to the point of your paragraph.
**Part 4**
ASSIGNMENT 4.1: 📝Introductions in Essays
**Assignment Instructions**
**Writing an Interesting Introduction Paragraph**
The first paragraph of your essay should introduce your reader to the main topic. This introduction serves to outline the general subject matter of your essay before transitioning to a more specific thesis statement, which presents the main argument or point of the essay. Think of the introduction as a roadmap that guides your reader through your ideas.
You should lead into your thesis and generate reader interest by starting your introduction paragraph with a hook sentence(s) that will grab the reader’s attention about your topic. A hook provides a way to get your reader interested in your topic from the very first sentence. You don’t want to jump directly into the point of your essay; instead, you should give your reader a chance to warm up to the topic by providing something interesting to get their attention.
Next, provide your reader with a bridge between the hook and thesis to help them make the connection between your hook sentence(s) and your thesis statement. The bridge is also a part of your introduction. On one side of the bridge are your hook sentence(s), and on the other is your thesis statement. It helps you span the gap between your attention-getting hook and your thesis statement by gradually leading your reader to the point of your essay by giving relevant information to generate interest in your topic.
Understand What Makes a Good Hook:
Before beginning, read about different types of hooks that can be used in introductory paragraphs. Choose one to try:
·
_An explanation_: Describe any background information your reader may need to understand your topic
·
_A problem_: Explain what the problem is and why it is a difficulty
·
_A misconception_: Clarify something that may be misunderstood about your topic
·
_A vivid description_: Paint a picture with words to set the scene for the essay.
·
_An anecdote_: Share a brief, personal, or fictional story to draw readers in.
**_AI Reminder:_** _Review the English department's AI policy located in the syllabus and at the top of the Content area of Blackboard._
_**AI should not be used to write any part of this assignment — I want your own thoughts.**_
**Instructions:**
Follow these steps in an MLA-formatted Word document.
**Step 1: Choose a Topic: This should be at the top of your document, like a title.**
Select one of the following essay topics for your introduction paragraph:
· The importance of mental health awareness among college students
· The impact of procrastination on grades
· The role of social media in shaping public opinion
· The benefits of learning a second language
**Step 2: Write Your Hook: Include the rough draft of your hook under your topic title.**
Write a hook for your introduction paragraph. Make sure the hook aligns with the essay topic you’ve chosen and is designed to pique the interest of your audience. It should be at least four (4) sentences long.
**Step 3: Expand into an Introduction Paragraph: This will follow under the rough draft of your hook.**
After crafting your hook, build your introduction paragraph around it. It should include:
· Your
**hook** and any
**background information**. Revise your rough draft from Step 3.
· The
**bridge** connecting your hook to your thesis statement sets up the essay.
· The
**thesis statement**: End your introduction with a clear and concise thesis statement that outlines the main argument or purpose of the essay.
Consider these questions when writing the draft of your introduction paragraph.
Reflect on your work for clarity, impact, and coherence:
· Does the hook effectively engage readers?
· Is the background information relevant without being overly detailed?
· Does the bridge clearly show the connection between your hook and the thesis?
· Does the thesis statement clearly convey the essay’s purpose?
**Step 4: Self-Assessment: This should be documented under the draft of your introduction paragraph.**
1. Having completed the writing process steps on your introduction paragraph, please self-evaluate your performance using the
**Introduction Paragraph Grading Rubric** attached below. Document your score and justify why you believe you should earn those points.
**Attach BOTH your completed rubric AND your Introduction Paragraph Word document for grading.**
**Tips for Success**
· Experiment with different types of hooks to find what works best for your topic.
· Avoid clichés or overly general statements—aim for originality and specificity.
· Consider your audience and tailor your hook to their interests and knowledge level.
**Part 5**
**ASSIGNMENT 4.3: ✍️Reflection Journal #4: Module 4 Experiences**
**Assignment Instructions**
**Reflection Journal #4: Annotation and/or Writing an Introduction Paragraph**
Reflection is an essential part of the learning process. It encourages us to become more self-aware about our knowledge or lack of it; it helps us remember what we have learned so we can make improvements. When we reflect, it allows us to see our growth and check our progress, which can lead to a sense of accomplishment. The journey through reflection helps to make evident what is needed to continue to grow and learn.
[**Reflective Writing Tips**](https://lit.libguides.com/reflective-practice-tips/writing)
**Assignment Focus:**
When we reflect, the key is to analyze the experience by asking yourself why the experience went the way it did, what its impact was on you, and how you plan to use this new knowledge. Think about your experience with annotation and/or writing an introduction paragraph to better understand what you learned from those experiences.
**Instructions:**
In an
MLA-formatted Word document, write a single paragraph reflecting on your experience by answering the following questions in as much detail as possible.
1. Describe your experience with annotation or writing an introduction paragraph.
2. What are your feelings and thoughts on the experience?
3. Explain what went well and also what went wrong.
4. Why do you think those things went well? Why did the other things go wrong?
5. What did you learn from this experience? What would you do differently?
6. What is your plan for the next time you need to annotate and/or write an introduction paragraph?