What is the objective of fishing? Catching fish, of course! The primary rule
of successful fishing is exactly the same for writing! As you are probably
learning in your English class, what makes your paper unique and
interesting is not just what you say, but how. The best way,
then, to add this unique quality to your paper is to be creative and try
to catch the best fish!
In fishing, you choose the fattest, juiciest worm for your hook so that the
fish will be attracted to your line. In writing, you are trying to interest
your audience, or readers, in your paper, so imagine your audience as that
fish you want to catch!
The best way to make your audience want to read your paper is to begin with
a "hook" that will entice them, interesting them in your ideas. Be creative
and choose one of the following methods below to help you begin your paper:
- a startling statement or fact
sample for topic: homelessness in America
Last year, 3 million children were homeless.
- a vivid example
sample for topic: local weather
January-March in Western Maryland is so cold that snow doesn't melt
in some areas until April.
- a description or mini-narrative
sample for topic: favorite music
When I arrive home from school, the first thing I do is kick off my
shoes, put on my favorite CD, and relax!
- a quotation or a bit of dialogue
sample for topic: the influence of television
Dr. Quinn: I have to remove this bullet.
Patient: Pa said not to trust no female doctor.
Dr. Quinn: Do you want me to help you? I can if you'll let me.
Is this really what the 1800's were like? Were women really doctors?
- a question
sample for topic: Romeo and Juliet analysis
Was it really necessary for the young lovers to die or could
Shakespeare have achieved his moral of "love conquers all" without
a tragic ending? I believe that . . .
- an analogy (comparing objects to each other)
sample topic: the benefits of writing
Reading is like falling in love. When I begin a book, I am interested
in the qualities I know a bit about. Gradually, I learn more and
enjoy the emotions I experience through the characters and events.
- a joke
sample topic: friendship
What is the topic of most whispered conversations? A secret. However,
true friends do not derive pleasure from repeating secrets you told
in confidence.
One or a combination of these "hooks" will add that creativity and originality
that you are searching for! Try it yourself; often times, the hardest part
of writing is getting started, so now you can work on reaching your audience
while simultaneously moving forward with your ideas.