ask a question. quote the text. help the reader relate to the topic of the essay. include an interesting detail from the text. Copy and paste your favorite lead at the top of your essay. Write the rest of your introduction right after your lead. Make sure you include all of these elements: A lead Name of text and author A sentence or two of key background information A sentence or two that lays out your thinking or what is interesting to you Make sure the introduction ends with your claim statement (you may decide to revise your claim statement). Read the complete introduction silently to yourself and make any changes needed so that the sentences flow well together. Original Writing Prompt Compare and contrast Phineas's behavior to that of an adolescent.