Essay Hooks Writing Game for Middle School

"But I don't know how to start!" Sound familiar? Even when our students have great ideas, they don't always know how to hook their readers with engaging introductions for their essays. This fun game and activity changes that!

First, students are split into five teams. Each team is given 8 game cards with examples of catchy essay hooks. Five types of hooks are included: quote, unexpected fact, anecdote, controversial statement, and kidding around(Q.U.A.C.K.). The teams then race to trade cards with each other until 1 team wins by collecting 8 essay hooks of the same type. This helps students identify and remember the types of essay hooks so they can use them in their own writinglater!

Next, students match the essay hooks to 8 thesis statements that these hooks could logically introduce. Once they have matched the hooks to the thesis statements, they order the hooks from most effective to least effective, based on their own opinions. This leads to meaningful classroom discussions and helps students evaluate the types of hooks that are appropriate for different topics.

Once students feel confident with how different hooks and thesis statements relate, they are given a handout that prompts them to connect one of the hooks and thesis statements by writing a bridge from one thought to the other. This helps students avoid choppy introduction paragraphs in their own writing.

Finally, music is played as students circulate throughout the classroom to find a partner. When the music stops, they high-five the closest classmate and share their introduction paragraphs, gaining ideas and offering feedback. Then the music begins and they start walking again.

This game, discussion, activity, and writing practice can eliminate those, "But how do I start?" questions for good.

What's included?

• A helpful page of teacher tips with instructions for a fun game, engaging discussion, and guided writing practice
• 40 Essay hook examples that fit into the 5 Q.U.A.C.K. categories--quote, unexpected fact, anecdote, controversial statement, and kidding around
• 8 Thesis statements that relate to the provided hooks
• A bridge-the-gap student handout where students can practice connecting hooks to thesis statements in a logical and connected manner

Your students will have a blast--and learn so much in the process!