Consider the two paragraphs below. Which paragraph is more appropriate as an introductory paragraph?
Paragraph A
This essay showed that economic, cultural, social and religious factors drive GBV in communities. The state’s failure to implement GBV-related policies and legislation also contributes to the problem. Legislation cannot operate in isolation. The full context must be taken into account, including how interventions aimed at addressing GBV are implemented and evaluated.
Paragraph B
Gender based violence is defined in various ways by different researchers and organisations. It is the general term used to capture violence that occurs as a result of the normative role expectations associated with each gender, as well as the unequal power relationships between the genders within the context of a specific society (Bloom 2008: 14). On the whole, South Africa has made strides in uplifting women in the country. However, despite this progress, GBV still remains unacceptably high. Cultural, religious, social and economic factors play a role in driving GBV. It is the aim of this essay to critically discuss the causes of GBV so that sound interventions can be developed to deal with it.
A.
Paragraph A
B.
Paragraph B
Paragraph B is more appropriate as an introductory paragraph because it provides a definition of gender-based violence and acknowledges the progress made in South Africa, while also stating that GBV remains a significant issue. It also clearly states the aim of the essay, which is to discuss the causes of GBV in order to develop interventions. Paragraph A, on the other hand, jumps straight into discussing the factors and policies related to GBV without providing background information or setting the context for the essay.
The more appropriate introductory paragraph is Paragraph B.
In order to determine which paragraph is more appropriate as an introductory paragraph, we need to consider the content and structure of each paragraph.
Paragraph A begins by summarizing the main points discussed in the essay, specifically highlighting the factors that drive gender-based violence (GBV) and the state's failure to implement related policies and legislation. It then emphasizes the need to consider the full context, including the implementation and evaluation of interventions aimed at addressing GBV. While this paragraph provides a concise overview of the essay's findings, it may be more suitable as a concluding paragraph as it briefly touches upon the essay's main points.
Paragraph B, on the other hand, starts by providing a definition of GBV and explaining its connection to gender norms and power relationships within society. It then mentions the progress made in uplifting women in South Africa but highlights that GBV remains a significant issue. It also acknowledges the various factors that contribute to GBV and states the essay's objective of critically discussing the causes to develop effective interventions. This paragraph sets the stage for the essay and provides a clear introduction to the topic.
Therefore, Paragraph B is more appropriate as an introductory paragraph as it introduces the topic of GBV, provides relevant context, and states the essay's objective.