UPM-CALC/CEL2103 WRTING ACADEMIC TEXTS/SEM 1 2019-2020/WP/TASK 2

WRITING PORTFOLIO TASK 2 – INTRODUCTORY PARAGRAPH

[OUTLINE]

NAME: NUR SYAHIRAH BINTI RASHID RASAYIA GROUP: 1

MATRIC NO.: EX03487

1. Based on your topic, construct an outline of an introductory paragraph for your

argumentative essay.
2. Your outline should include the following:
a. introduction of the topic
b. the importance of the issue
c. the difference of opinion regarding the issue
d. the writer’s stand (thesis statement)

Topic: Zoo

Debatable Issue: Zoos should be banned

Stand: I disagree with the issue.

Introduction of the Topic

Zoos are almost indispensable places to visit in cities today, and going to the zoo is
a favourite activity for children and families.There is an issue of whether zoos should
be abolished has been widely debated in our community recently.

The Importance of the Issue

It is an important topic because zoo is the only place where brings people and
animals together, and educates the public to enhance appreciation of the animals.

The Difference of Opinion Regarding the Issue

Opponents think that we are not entitled to trap animals in zoos and strip their
freedom.

Thesis Statement:
Supporters say that zoos have harmed the animals, despite the fact that zoos
provide a safe environment for animals and educate the public.
 UPM-CALC/CEL2103 WRTING ACADEMIC TEXTS/SEM 1 2019-2020/WP/TASK 2

WRITING PORTFOLIO TASK 2 – INTRODUCTORY FORM

[FINAL]

Using the outline that you have prepared above, write the complete introductory
paragraph for your argumentative essay. Your introductory paragraph should be
written in more than 100 words but not exceeding 200 words.

Zoos are almost indispensable places to visit in cities today, and going to the zoo is
a favourite activity for children and families.There is an issue of whether zoos should
be abolished has been widely debated in our community recently.It is an important
topic because zoo is the only place where brings people and animals together, and
educates the public to enhance appreciation of the animals. Opponents think that we
are not entitled to trap animals in zoos and strip their freedom. Supporters say that
zoos have harmed the animals, despite the fact that zoos provide a safe
environment for animals and educate the public.
 UPM-CALC/CEL2103 WRTING ACADEMIC TEXTS/SEM 1 2019-2020/WP/TASK 2

WRITING PORTFOLIO TASK 2 SELF-EDITING CHECKLIST

NO. CRITERIA YES NO

INTRODUCTION OF THE TOPIC

1. The general statements provide enough background about the topic. 

The “hook” is adequately interesting to attract the reader’s attention. 

THE IMPORTANCE OF THE ISSUE

The importance of the issue is clearly stated within the introductory 

2. paragraph.

The issue chosen provides benefits to the readers. 

THE DIFFERENCE OF OPINION REGARDING THE ISSUE

There are different views that disagree with the writer’s stand. 

3. The difference of opinion regarding the issue is clearly stated within 

the introductory paragraph.

THESIS STATEMENT

The thesis statement presents arguments from both sides. 

4. The thesis statement is clear and direct. 

The thesis statement can be understood on the first reading. 

5. How can this introductory paragraph be further improved?

Introductory paragraph can be improved by use a variety of sentence types rather than only using
simple sentences.