How do I write the introductory paragraph for my essay?

Question

I have to write a five paragraph essay comparing and contrasting the atmosphere, gravitational pull, and surface for two planets. I don't know how to write the introductory paragraph. I am comparing and contrasting Mars and Earth.

Answer 1

if it is a 5 paragraph essay then there should be 3 separate points that you want to discuss (the atmosphere, gravitational pull, and the surfaces of the planets.)  that's what paragraph 2, 3, and 4 should be about.  paragraph one is the introduction and paragraph 5 is the conclusion.  paragraph one and five are basically the same you just change the wording around a little. the way to write paragraphs 2, 3 , and 4 is that the first sentence is a summary of what the paragraph is about and then you elaborate/ go into more detail on it in the rest of the paragraph.  i usually use the first sentence from each paragraph (2,3,4) as the introductory paragraph and then paraphrase it for the conclusion paragraph.  i hope this helps  :)

oh yeah the first sentence of the introduction paragraph and conclusion paragraph should be a summary of it's paragraph also telling the reader what the essay is about.

Answer 2

Both the earth and Mars vary in terms of atmosphere, gravitational pull, and surface. Recent discoveries about the red planet suggest that some of the differences of surface may not be as striking as were once thought, but humanity's understanding of atmosphere and gravitational pull have been known and observed for some time.

[paragraph 2]