I have to write a research paper on my field trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NY, and discuss 8 items in length that we were meant to find in the museum. The only problem I am having is actually starting the paper, I don't want to just jump into the first painting I needed to research, but I'm not exactly sure what to include in an introduction. I was thinking maybe including a brief history of the museum but I feel it is also a bit irrelavent. Any advice?

Don't bother trying to write the introduction first. Have a good thesis statement and an outline that includes all your support ideas.

Then write the body of your paper first. While writing it or even while revising it, you will probably get some good ideas about how you want to introduce this paper. After all, how can you introduce something you don't know in detail yet??

http://grammar.ccc.commnet.edu/grammar/intros.htm

=)

Is there a common theme to the items you were to research? If so, your introduction can include that theme.

If the items seem to have been randomly chosen, your introduction can make a general comment about the items you researched.

Thank you for using the Jiskha Homework Help Forum. Here are some things you might like to consider in your analysis.

A formal analysis of a painting considers its lines, shapes, and colours: generally referred to as 'composition'. What the artist puts into a painting (and often, what s/he leaves out, too!)

All art exists within a particular social, economic, religious and cultural context. These aspects can make your analysis interesting.

When it comes to writing an introduction for your research paper on your field trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in NY, it's important to capture your reader's attention and provide essential context. While including a brief history of the museum may be interesting, it's not necessary for every research paper. Here are a few alternative strategies to help you create a strong introduction:

1. Start with a captivating anecdote: Begin your paper by sharing a personal story or experience from your field trip that highlights the significance or impact the museum visit had on you. This will engage your reader and establish a connection between them and your exploration of the chosen items.

2. Begin with a thought-provoking question or statement: Pose an intriguing question or make a bold statement that sparks curiosity and grabs your reader's attention. For example, you could start by asking, "Have you ever wondered how art can transcend time and space? During my visit to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, I discovered eight fascinating items that not only revealed the depth of human expression but also challenged my understanding of artistic imagination."

3. Establish the purpose and scope: Clearly state the objective of your research paper and explain why you chose the Metropolitan Museum of Art as your subject. Ensure that your reader understands that you will be discussing eight specific items discovered during your field trip and how they contribute to your overall theme or topic.

4. Provide a brief overview of the items: Give a glimpse of the eight items you investigated without going into too much detail. Present a concise list of the objects, their significance, or why they piqued your interest. This overview will serve as a preview of what your paper will cover.

5. Connect the topic to a broader context: If relevant, you can establish a connection between your chosen items and broader themes or trends in art history or your field of study. This will demonstrate the significance of your research and attract your reader's attention.

Remember, the introduction sets the tone for your entire paper, so aim to engage your reader and provide them with a clear understanding of what to expect. Feel free to combine or modify these strategies to craft an introduction that suits your writing style and project requirements.