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1. The introduction to a piece of persuasive writing has two main jobs:
 To “hook” the reader’s attention.
 To introduce the topic of the piece of writing.
Persuasive writing is a little tricky because no one really wants to be
persuaded. As a writer, you have to be subtle. You need to address
your audience and show that you understand the reader’s point of
view, while also stating your position clearly.
Let’s look at some bad examples of introductions. What do you
notice?
Position: People should use reusable water bottles
Audience: Students
Example Why is this a poor
introduction?
You probably don’t know how bad it
is to use disposable water bottles.
Plastic water bottles are terrible! Well,
you are in luck because I am going to
show you all of the reasons why you
should use reusable water bottles.
Hey you! Yes, I’m talking to you!
Step away from the water bottle. Yeah,
it looks nice and good, but it’s really
terrible.
E. Kissner 2013
Writing an Introduction
to a persuasive essay

2. In fact, a well-written introduction to a persuasive piece of writing
should include these elements:
An interesting “hook” to get the reader’s attention
A statement that shows that you understand the reader’s point
of view (a concession statement)
A clearly stated position
Read the introduction below. Find all three parts of a good
introduction and label the boxes.
Now, you will write the
introduction to your persuasive essay. Use the boxes and the
lines below to include the important elements.
E. Kissner 2013
Imagine 29 billion water bottles, stretched end to
end. Would they fill up a forest? A meadow? All
of the places that you love? Cheap, convenient
water bottles are an easy way to quench your
thirst. It might seem simple to just buy a quick
water bottle to take on a hike or to a sports event.
After all, Americans use 29 billion plastic water
bottles each year. But these water bottles are not
the bargain that they seem. Cheap plastic water
bottles waste resources, create pollution, and
cause more problems than they solve.
Crafting Your Introduction

3. E. Kissner 2013
Hook
Begin by putting an
idea in your
reader’s mind. Start
with a concrete
image, a quote, or a
startling fact.
Concession
Write a sentence or
two to show that
you understand
your reader’s point
of view.
Position Statement
Write your position
and your reasons in
a sentence.