Following are four complete introductions from classroom speeches. Each has at least one flaw that keeps it from fulfilling all the functions of a good introduction. For each introduction:

• identify the flaw (or flaws)
• make specific suggestions for improving the introduction

Introduction #1

It is very hard to cuddle a fish. Fish won't roll over or fetch the morning paper. You won't find them curling up on your lap, chasing a ball of string, or rescuing a child from a burning building.Yet despite these shortcomings, lots of tropical fish have found their way into American homes. Fish have earned a spot next to the all-American dog and the cuddly kitten in the hearts of millions. Today I would like to explain how you can start a home aquarium and discover the pleasures of owning tropical fish.

Introduction #2

We have so much unused human potential. By improving the use of your time, you can have much more time for social activities. You can use your mental processes more fully, thereby improving your grades. You can also increase your physical stamina and improve your health. We must learn to know our bodies.

Introduction #3

A six-year-old collie lay battered and helpless by the side of the road. The car that hit her had broken her pelvis, dislocated her hip and smashed her jaw. It had also blinded her and she whimpered in pain and fear. Unfortunately, this true story happens much too frequently because of the growing problem of pet overpopulation. Having grown up on a farm with animals of all kinds, I care deeply about their welfare and I have become aware through my veterinary courses on how serious the problem of pet overpopulation is.

Introduction #4

Every problem has at least two sides. When one side is right and the other side is wrong, the problem is easy to solve. But what if both sides have merit in their arguments? How do you solve these problems?Balancing the rights of everyone in an adoption is one of these problems.The parents who give up the child have a right that all the information they disclose be kept confidential, while the adopted child has a right to know about the identity of his or her natural parents. Today, I'd like to explore this problem with you and look at one approach to solving it.