Introductions should make strong statements that arouse attention
and announce what a paper is about. Avoid making general statements
that simply serve as weak titles:
This paper is about property taxes. People are leaving
this state because they are too high. This is hurting Wisconsin.
You can improve introductions by using a number of techniques:
1. Open with a thesis statement:
Wisconsin must lower property taxes to prevent a massive
loss of revenue needed to improve education and create welfare
reform.
2. Begin with a fact or statistic:
In 1995 more than two hundred small businesses left
Wisconsin and relocated in other states to escape excessive
property taxes.
3. Use a quotation:
Addressing shareholders last December, Janet Hernandez
announced, "After thirty years in Milwaukee, our firm
cannot compete because of high property taxes."
4. Open with a narrative:
In 1919 there were few jobs for black army veterans.
Frank Washington opened a small repair shop that grew into
a company that employed fifty people until his grandson was
forced to close because of high property taxes.
