Using the next set of notes, write the third paragraph.

An introduction is crucial, not just for what it says about the topic, but for what it tells the reader about the writer’s style and approach. Unless you can introduce the subject clearly the reader may not wish to continue. 1. What is the purpose of the introduction to an essay? Choose from the items below: a to define some of the terms in the title b to give your opinion of the subject c to show that you have read some research on the subject d to show that the subject is worth writing about e to explain which areas of the subject you will deal with f to get the reader’s attention with a provocative idea g to show how you intend to organise your essay

2. It may be necessary to clarify some of the words in the title.

This is to make it clear that you understand the title. Discuss the impact of privatisation on the British economy . Privatisation is the process of transferring certain industries from state control to the private sector, which began in Britain in 1981 with British Telecom …

3. In longer assignments it is important to show that you are familiar with current research.

This can be demonstrated using phrases such as: A number of researchers have examined this issue, notably ... Various investigations have explored the subject, especially ...

4. You must show the importance of the topic.

This can be either in the academic world or as a contemporary issue of wider relevance. As privatisation is increasingly seen as a remedy for economic ills in many other countries, it is worth examining its impact in Britain, which was a pioneer in this process. 5. As you are writing only an essay, not a book, it is obviously not possible to deal with all aspects of your subject. Therefore you need to explain what limits you are setting on the discussion, and possibly give reasons for this. Only privatisations completed between 1981 and 1992 will be dealt with, as it is too soon to assess the impact of later developments. 6. For your own benefit, as well as the reader’s, it is useful to outline how the essay will be organised. An assessment will first be made of the performance of the privatised industries themselves, on an individual basis, and then the performance of the economy as a whole will be examined.

13. Introductions

2.4 Definitions cross reference