AS Literature - Interview with Iweala

AS Comms - what makes a good opening paragraph for the 1000 word essay?

Strong opening paragraphs:

 

• Refer back to the question

• Provide a context (social; historical) for the essay - even if only briefly

• Make it clear why this is an area worth exploring

• Are written clearly and concisely, with a formal register

• Provide sources for any secondary research used

• Set up the boundaries/scope of the answer (we call this the thesis)

 

Example top grade opening paragraph

 

Boomerang Kids

One of the first rites of passage we experience is arguably moving out of our childhood home. This primary step into adulthood provides independence and a start off into your new life. Traditionally, young adults moved out due to starting university or having a new job, but in the 21^st century the cultural norm is changing.  According to The Office for National Statistics, “1.8million men and 1.1million women between the age of 20 and 34 are living with their parents”[1]. Nowadays young adults are moving back home after university or not leaving home at all, and this is due to radical social and economic changes. Young adults that move back in with their parents/guardians have been given a new name, “boomerang kids”. This exploration focuses on why the traditional rites of passage moment of leaving home is being delayed or abandoned, and how this is changing the family unit.

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[1] http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2327674/Staggering-million-parents-50-grown-children-living-home.html

AS Comms - applying the course to a comedy clip / rites of passage