INTRODUCTION:

Writing introductions and conclusions
The first and last paragraphs in your essay are important because often these are the sections (together with the bibliography) your tutor will read first.
A clear introduction invites the reader to read on, and the conclusion sums up the main points. Remember the reader!

Writing Introductions
The best way to write a paragraph - particularly an introductory paragraph – is to start with the general idea, then narrow down the focus, like this:

An introductory paragraph should:

1. successfully link the title in the introductory paragraph
2. bring out the general significance of the question
3. set out the aim or purpose of the essay
4. give the writer's approach to the topic
5. outline the issues the essay will deal with
6. signal the structure

Task:  For the following essay questions think how successfully the introductory paragraphs, taken from undergraduate essays, meet the six criteria  

(Click text to see relevant paragraph)

1. "How has the role of British trades unions changed since the 1970s?  Can they still be described as a vital defence for the weak against the strong?"
   
   
2. One "acid test" of any democracy is the extent to which its mass communications system is free from state control. How does Britain score?
   
   
3. "Evaluate the usefulness of the concept of a North-South division in discussing global inequalities."
   
   
4. "International aid is of more value to the donor country than to the receiving country". Discuss this statement and give examples.
   
   
5. "Examine the extent to which Europe underdeveloped Africa and the role slavery played in the process."