Chapter 9.4 Analyzing an Introduction

  • Learning Objectives:

    • Understand a full introduction section.

    • Identify the six parts of an introduction.

Smart Dust Introduction

  • Context: Previous chapters focused on creating clear introductions, emphasizing their importance and six key functions.

  • Introduction Paragraph:

    • Refers to Michael Crichton's book "Prey" (02/2002) about nanomachines feeding off living tissue. These nanomachines were:

      • Solar powered.

      • Self-sufficient.

      • Intelligent.

      • Capable of working together as a swarm to overtake and kill prey for resources.

    • The technology described in "Prey" is closer to science fact than fiction.

    • In February, professors Kahn, Katz, and Pister at UC Berkeley hypothesized in the Journal of Communications and Networks about wireless networks of tiny microelectromechanical sensors (MEMS) that could detect phenomena like light, temperature, and vibration.

    • By 02/2004, Fortune magazine listed smart dust as a top 10 tech trend.

    • Researchers have suggested uses for smart dust ranging from tracking patients to early warnings for natural disasters and defense against bioterrorism.

  • Speech Overview: The speech will explain what smart dust is and its applications.

Structure of the Speech

  • Examine what SmartDust is and how it works.

  • Examine some military applications of SmartDust.

  • Discuss some nonmilitary applications of SmartDust.

Table 9.2: Smart Dust Introduction Analysis

  • Attention Getter:

    • Anecdote from Michael Crichton's "Prey" about nanomachines.

    • Analysis: Uses a best-selling novel to grab attention.

  • Link to Topic:

    • Connects "Prey" to scientists' actual research in nanotechnology.

    • Analysis: Shows the connection between fiction and scientific reality.

  • Reasons to Listen:

    • Cites Fortune magazine's listing of SmartDust as a top tech trend.

    • Indicates potential economic investment and varied applications.

  • Espousal of Credibility:

    • References research from the Journal of Communications and Networks and Fortune magazine.

    • Analysis: Shows speaker's research efforts.

  • Thesis Statement:

    • "Today, I'm going to explain what SmartDust is and the various applications SmartDust has in the near future."

    • Analysis: Clearly states the informative nature of the speech without building an argument or opinion.

  • Preview:

    • Lists three main points:

      • What smart dust is and how it works.

      • Military applications of smart dust.

      • Nonmilitary applications of smart dust.

    • Analysis: Clearly indicates the speech's structure and main topics.