Composition 101: Introduction And Purpose In Essays ✓ Solved

Composition 1011 introductionstheir Purpose In Essays1capture Atte

Describe the purpose of introductions in essays, including how they capture attention, reveal the subject, show the writer's point of view, state the importance of the topic, and provide a preview of the essay's structure. Discuss when to write introductions—before or after research—and the different types of introductions, such as quotations, startling statistics, questions, anecdotes, specific examples, and general to specific approaches. Provide examples of introductory strategies for an essay on "The Costs of College," illustrating how each type can be effectively employed to engage readers and set the stage for the argument.

Sample Paper For Above instruction

Introduction: The Rising Costs of Higher Education and Their Implications

In recent decades, the expense associated with attending college has escalated dramatically, raising concerns about access, affordability, and economic sustainability. As tuition fees, books, and living expenses continue to climb, students and their families find themselves facing unprecedented financial burdens. This essay explores the various factors contributing to the soaring costs of college, examines the impact of these trends on students' futures, and considers potential solutions to make higher education accessible and affordable for all.

Engaging Attention with a Quotation

"It’s unbelievable, definitely. It’s twenty- or thirty thousand a year, easy. And those aren’t even the really expensive schools," lamented Eric Lindholm, a mental health counselor from Wisconsin, while helping his daughter navigate her college options. His words echo the realities faced by many families, illustrating the growing financial strain of higher education. Such a startling quotation immediately captures the reader's attention and personalizes the issue, setting the tone for the discussion on college costs.

Using a Surprising Statistic to Highlight the Issue

In 1980, the average annual cost of college—including tuition, textbooks, fees, and housing—equipped with inflation adjustments, was approximately $4,377. Fast-forward to 2018, and that figure ballooned to over twenty-two thousand dollars, with no signs of slowing down. This rapid escalation has outpaced inflation, illustrating a troubling trend where higher education becomes progressively less affordable for the average student. Presenting this startling statistic draws readers into the magnitude of the crisis and underscores the urgency of addressing rising college costs.

Raising Questions to Engage Readers

What are the implications when employers require a college degree for jobs that offer modest pay? Why have tuition rates surged so dramatically over just a few decades? As college costs climb, questions like these challenge the reader to consider the societal and economic consequences. They provoke critical reflection on whether the pursuit of higher education remains a viable path to the American Dream or has become an unattainable privilege for many.

Sharing an Anecdote for Personal Connection

My wife and I began saving for our son’s college fund the day he was born. Despite our consistent contributions, projections indicate that, without significant increases in savings or financial aid, we may struggle to cover the rising costs of his education. This personal story illustrates the common anxiety families face as they plan for college expenses, emphasizing the tangible impact of the rising costs and the importance of early preparation.

Employing a Specific Example to Illustrate Broader Trends

Consider a typical family saving to send their child to an in-state public university. If current trends persist, they might need to save over a hundred thousand dollars—an amount that has become increasingly difficult to accumulate. Such specific examples personalize the abstract issue of rising costs and help readers grasp the financial challenges confronting modern families.

From General to Specific to Explain Widespread Impact

Across the United States, debt associated with higher education is a significant burden, with student loans reaching nearly $1.6 trillion owed by over 45 million borrowers. For many, student loan debt surpasses credit card and auto loan debt, illustrating its pervasive nature. For young Americans, especially, student debt poses a substantial obstacle to financial stability, affecting homeownership, family planning, and overall economic wellbeing. This broad perspective underscores the widespread implications of rising college costs on individual lives and the economy.

In conclusion, addressing the soaring costs of college requires a multifaceted approach—ranging from policy reforms and financial aid programs to early savings strategies and societal shifts in perceptions of higher education. Recognizing these varied introduction techniques helps create compelling, engaging essays that effectively set the stage for in-depth discussions of critical issues like the affordability of higher education.

References

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