A term paper is a research paper written by students over an academic term, accounting for a significant part of a grade. Term papers are generally intended to describe an event, a concept, or argue a point. A term paper introduction is the first paragraph in which you provide background information about your topic and present your thesis statement. It sets the stage for the rest of your paper and should grab the reader's attention and make them want to keep reading.
An effective term paper introduction should do the following:
Provide context: Begin by giving some background information about your topic. This helps the reader understand the context in which you are writing and sets the stage for the rest of your paper.
State your thesis: A thesis is a statement that summarizes the main argument or point of your paper. It should be clear and concise, and it should be placed at the end of your introduction.
Preview the main points: After stating your thesis, you should briefly outline the main points that you will be discussing in your paper. This gives the reader an idea of what to expect and helps them follow your argument.
Here is an example of a term paper introduction:
Title: "The Impact of Social Media on Society"
Introduction:
Over the past decade, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. From staying in touch with friends and family to finding information and news, social media platforms have become a central part of how we communicate and interact with the world. However, the widespread adoption of social media has also raised concerns about its impact on society. In this term paper, I will examine the ways in which social media has changed the way we communicate and interact, as well as the potential consequences of these changes. My thesis is that while social media has brought many benefits, it has also had negative effects on society, including the spread of misinformation, the erosion of privacy, and the creation of echo chambers.
This introduction provides context by explaining the widespread use of social media and introduces the main theme of the paper, which is the impact of social media on society. It also states the thesis and previews the main points that will be discussed.
Overall, the introduction of a term paper is an important part of your paper as it sets the stage for the rest of your work and helps the reader understand what to expect. By providing context, stating your thesis, and previewing the main points, you can effectively introduce your topic and engage the reader.