Name ___________________________ Class ___________

An introduction paragraph prepares your reader’s mind for your topic. It gives your reader context,
background information, or reason for your topic.

General to Specific Introductions (GàS)

These introductions start with a general (big) topic then move to more specific information (main point).

Example:
There are many interesting creatures in the ocean. They come in all different shapes, sizes and kinds.
Some sea creatures are even intelligent. The octopus is one of these. There are three main reasons why the
octopus is an intelligent animal.

creatures in the ocean General

examples of differences

intelligent ocean
creatures
octopus

3 reasons why octopi are intelligent

Specific (thesis)

Analyze this One!

Japanese cuisine is becoming more and more popular all over
the world. There are increasing numbers of Japanese restaurants in
America, Australia and the Middle East as people develop a taste for
food from Japan. One of the main reasons that food from Japan is
becoming more popular is because of the huge variety of dishes and
regional specialties. Three of the most popular categories of Japanese
cuisine are rice dishes, noodle dishes and meat dishes.
 Practice
Directions: Put these sentences in the correct order to create a clear general to specific chain. Write the letters
in the triangles on the right.

1. Universities
a) Three of the most important things students should look at carefully
when choosing a university are the quality of the professors,
curriculum, and job counseling.
b) In today’s society, getting a good education is becoming more and
more important.
c) There are a number of qualities that students should look for when
choosing a university.
d) Choosing a good university is a decision that effects a person’s whole
life.
e) Getting a high school education is good, but now, most company jobs
require a university degree.

2. Animals
a) In particular, rainforest birds are known for being colorful and exotic.

b) Some of the most unusual animals come from the rainforests.

c) There are many kinds of animals in the world.

d) Three famous rainforest birds are the quetzal, hyacinth macaw, and
toucans.

e) Animals come in all shapes and sizes.

3. Vacations
a) One major reason people travel is to take a vacation from the stress
of daily life.

b) There are a number of reasons why people travel.

c) Some people travel for business or to visit relatives living in different

areas.
d) Three popular kinds of vacations are relaxing vacations, cultural
vacations and adventure vacations.
e) Different people like different kinds of vacations to help them reduce
stress.
4. Environmental Issues
a) Developed countries have very different environmental issues than
developing countries.

b) There are many environmental issues facing the world today.

c) Three of the main causes of Canada’s emissions are coal burning, oil
use and vehicle exhaust.
d) Developed countries consume a lot of resources and produce a lot of
waste.

e) Canada produces 1.48% of the world’s CO2 emissions.

Notes & Planning Space: