Suggestions for the Research Intro and Conclusion
Intro Paragraph (5+ sentences):
Follow the inverted triangle formula.
1. Lead with imagery that engages the senses (see, hear, taste, smell, touch)
2. Then, add general background as a transition (see suggestions below)
3. End with a specific, opinionated thesis.
Suggestions for background:
· What is a catalyst of change? What are attributes of a leader?
· How are these people different from ordinary folks in society?
· How is our world shaped by these rare people?
· What would society be like without leaders, people who are willing to take risks?
· Then introduce your specific person and explain how he/she meets your criteria of a catalyst of change
Conclusion (5+ sentences):
· Based on all the research you completed and all the facts you uncovered about this person, now answer the simple question: SO WHAT?
o What conclusion(s) can you draw?
o What does all the info in paper prove? (see thesis!)
o Speculate on how this person’s legacy will affect future generations
o Come back to that opening image you started with
Research Lead Samples
Wood split with an echoing crash as limbs met dirt, while birds soared into the cloudy refuge of the sky, abandoning their ruined homes. Machines whirred to life as men on the ground barked orders to collect the precious wood from the fallen tree. Within moments, a serene landscape was reduced to a vacant stump-infested patch of earth. Without anyone to block the path of industry, the wilderness suffered immensely at the hand of humans. No one truly aided the forests and lands of North America until the arrival of environmentalist, John Muir. Not only did he exhibit a passion for nature, he possessed the ardor to truly protect it. With Muir’s contribution, ‘virgin forests’ stood a fighting chance against merciless industry; ravaging, non-native livestock and money-driven laborers no longer harm the land quite so recklessly. John Muir protected America’s unscathed lands, enlightening the public with his tremendous efforts in wilderness preservation, forever securing this nation’s vast and stunning landscape.
It was sliced into perfect segments, sautéed to the ideal texture, and basted to a magnificent essence. As the morsel melted in the mouth, the tremendous flavor hit the palate, immediately stirring the senses. The aroma and savor of delicious food can alter your senses, just as particular individuals have the altered world. That individual who sets himself apart from the normal realm of society, and beneficially aids and advances civilization is a catalyst of change. Her values and passions overcome the past and are the backbone of what directs them to their future. In the absence of these individuals, technology may have never been born, lives may have been lost, several professions may have never been discovered, and overall the efficiency of life never would have been revealed. Catalysts of change come in all areas of life, and as time continues to pass, communities continue to evolve by these sole few. During the 1960’s, Julia Child significantly transformed the way Americans view the cooking scene. While generating excitement and simplicity in her recipes along with her savvy presence in the media, Julia Child led America into an era of fine culinary cuisine.
Camera lights flicker astonishingly around every inch of the stadium. In unison, the roaring crowd chants the name of the victor. As the blaring crowds’ persisting chant grows louder, a man in the middle of the ring raises his bloodied and torn gloves. As he bounces around with limitless energy, he repeatedly hollers “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee!” A new champion is born. Thousands of aspiring children boxers gaze at the television in utter disbelief as Muhammad Ali wraps the intricate and shiny Heavyweight Championship belt around his waist. This single event served as the glorious reward of a lifetime of dedication and hardship. Without this man, the whole world of sports could never be the same. Through racism, afflictions, and tremendous effort in the boxing ring, Muhammad Ali paved his own unique trail of success and accomplishment that even the mightiest of people would struggle to achieve.