Writing a Strong Hook / Introduction

A hook is a way to captivate an audience without wasting any time. Catchy introductions work the same way great headlines do—by making it irresistible to continue reading. The Learning Library's resources on writing a strong hook include prompts, lesson plans, workbooks, and hands-on activities that teach kids how to capture the reader with punchy, persuasive prose.

Charles Dickens knew how to write a good hook. He wrote the infamous "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times..." in "A Tale of Two Cities." He also wrote "Whether I shall turn out to be the hero of my own life, or whether that station will be held by anybody else, these pages must show," as the opening line in "David Copperfield."

Just like the hook in the greatest songs, hooks in writing capture the audience instantly and keep them wanting more. The Learning Library's resources teach kids how to write skillful hooks. Printable worksheets, like Strong Beginnings and Hook Your Reader!, provide students with examples of successful introductions and instruct them to practice writing their own. There are a couple of printouts that offer different strategies on how to begin a story such as asking a question or painting the picture of an intriguing scenario. Ideas and Hooks: Personal Narrative is a lesson plan that encourages students to create a strong angle to their own personal tale. These resources on writing a strong hook are the gateway to an even stronger story.