How to Teach Hook Writing

Introduction

There is no single strategy for writing a hook. Hooks can use descriptive language, humor, clever phrasing, action, foreshadowing and many other techniques to lure the reader in. The best way to teach students to write hooks is to revisit the idea frequently throughout the year, cultivating an awareness of what makes a good hook.

Step One

Start by reading a good hook from a piece of fiction. Pretty much anything by Roald Dahl will work very well. For older readers, "The Tell-Tale Heart" by Edgar Allen Poe is an excellent choice.

Step Two

Ask the students if the hook would make them want to read the story. Discuss why or why not? What about it works or doesn't work?

Step Three

Read the students another hook from a different sort of writing. For example, you might find a clipping from a newspaper or magazine article and read the first line.

Step Four

Compare the hooks and what they do to pull you in. Ask the students if they have any other examples of ways a piece of writing can hook the reader.

Step Five

Have your students quote or bring in a story or article with a good hook. Each student should explain how the hook pulls him in and what he likes about it.

Step Six

Have your students write a story with five different hooks. Each should share her story with the class. Then, the class should discuss which is the best hook or what the virtues are of each.

Step Seven

Throughout the year, have your students write multiple hooks for all of their writing projects. They can either discuss them with a small group or the class as a whole.

 

In the introductory paragraph, use techniques that hook the reader.

–Ask a question.

–Use a catchy phrase or quote.

–Make up a tongue twister.

–Make an exclamatory sentence.

–Use a lead in sentence that entices the reader to read on.

Use a hook to lure the reader into the composition.

 

The Hook:  Question

–Have you ever had a friend who could tell you what you were thinking?

–Do you have a friend you could call on at anytime?

–Can you think of someone who knows your deepest thoughts?

My Most Embarrassing Day

A lead in sentence is a technique often used by the news media.  How many times have you heard a news intro use this type of teaser?