Knowing where to start is a challenge all writers face. Young writers, especially, often go straight to the excitement and underestimate the value of the beginning. Introductions are important because they generate interest in readers and give them context, all the while building anticipation about what’s to come.
To help your young writer create effective introductions, ask them to think about the introduction as having five parts. First, they must hook the reader with an enticing first line. Then, they must transition to who the story is about. Then, they must move on to explain what the situation is. Then, they must tell readers where all this is happening. Finally, they must hint at impending trouble.
That order works well in most situations, but the list can be reordered to suit how the writer wants to develop the story. The only things that don’t change are the location of the hook and that all the elements mentioned must come in the introduction. Practicing first lines and introductions is important because, as the saying goes, you never get a second chance at a first impression.
So, don’t leave young writers guessing about what to do. Show your young writer that there are different strategies for hooking the readers’ attention and allow them to practice. Remind them to include description from the onset, especially when introducing characters and setting. And above all, encourage them to build excitement along the way.
