prom introduction essay

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Prom introductions iconic part of the prom experience

The proms (short for promenades) of today are a social and iconic part of the high school experience. They hold everything from photos, to formal dinners, chocolate fountains, a dress worthy of the red carpet and even a rented limousine. According to prettyforprom.com, an all-about-prom website, historians believed prom has been taking place as early as the 1800’s. They are not mentioned in yearbooks until the 1930’s. As early as then, they are referred to in women’s diaries as “proms”.

Out of all the events that take place at a high school prom, the tradition of introductions was established well before our time. Girls in white gloves and dresses would be escorted into the promenade hall by their dates to be officially introduced to the social group. The group was carefully chosen and invitations were only sent out to the wealthy students. This soon changed as the years went by and it became a generalized experience for everyone. As the promenades became more sophisticated, high school girls competed to see who wore the most expensive or prettiest dress and who took the hottest date to prom introductions.

Mrs. Bonnie Anderson is the junior class advisor and helps organize prom. This year the prom theme is “When in Rome” and the procedure of introductions is very specific.

“All couples who would like to be introduced before the dance begins, assemble in the hallway outside of the auditorium. Mr. Knapp introduces each couple and they walk to the middle of the stage, where their parents and friends may take pictures of them,” Anderson said.

Not only are the couples introduced, but they also announce who is to be prom king, queen, prince and princess.

“Afterwards, the president of the junior class Ali Byrd, will dedicate the prom to the senior class,” Anderson said.

When HHS was much smaller, this event was called “figures”. Couples were introduced in the gym. As the school grew bigger in numbers they decided to move the event to the auditorium and change the name to “introductions”.

Over the years, the introduction method has had similar procedures to today’s proms. Patrick Jarrett, a Geometry teacher at the Harrisonburg High math department, remembers going to his prom.

“What they would do is a couple would come off from the side of the stage and stop for an official photo, keep walking and taking other official photos, the place was very decorated,” Jarrett said.

Decorations can range from a highly decorated arc to carpets and even balloons all according to the particular theme chosen that year.

If you compare the past introductions with present ones there isn’t much change neither in procedure nor in everyone’s opinion about it. While some students choose to go through all the procedures of prom and enjoy it to the fullest, others prefer to miss out on some things. A senior at Harrisonburg High, Josh Gray has strong opinions about introductions.

“Prom was interesting to say the least, but you don’t have to go to prom introductions,”Gray said.

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Essays on Prom

Prom: A Night to Remember Prom is one of the most exciting and unforgettable events in a teenager's life. It's a time to celebrate their hard work and their success in school, and it also represents the end of high school. It's a special night, and it's important to plan everything...

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Student Life

Why is Prom even important?

N. Wilson | March 25, 2022

Prom is a right of passage

Prom is more than just a dance. There’s more. It’s a part of a greater picture. This year, make Prom a priority, even if you have to get creative with how you go about it. Here are some of the reasons why Prom is such a big deal in high school.

For the senior class, prom night serves as a symbol of four years of learning, friendship, and school spirit, and it’s frequently the last time the entire class is all together before graduation. Prom, along with graduation, marks the conclusion of high school and the beginning of adulthood for students. It’s an experience that students will never forget.

Prom is a school tradition

Prom is the peak of high school tradition. Many schools have held their year-end Prom celebration since the school’s inception, and many have never missed one.  Prom is a source of pride for students, and the memories will last a lifetime. If you ask anyone who has ever attended a Prom, they will most likely be able to recount every detail of the night, including what they wore, who their date was, the Prom theme, and so on. Prom is a big occasion, and it’s something that schools look forward to every year as a chance to say farewell to the Senior class.

Prom brings students together

Homecoming is traditionally thought of as the most significant event of the year for building school spirit, but Prom is just as crucial for bringing students together. It’s frequently seniors’ last chance to have fun with their friends, reflect on their high school years, and share memories before moving on to their post-high-school lives. It’s the season’s biggest social gathering, and the best chance for students to display their pride in their school and class.

How did prom even start?

Prom, short for promenade, “the formal, introductory parading of guests at a reception,” developed in the middle 1800s at schools and institutions in the northeast to encourage social decorum and graces in each graduating class. Early references to prom include a remark in an 1879 issue of the Harvard Crimson, which links it to the yearly Ivy League ritual of presentation week, during which formal attire and dancing accompanied a promenade performance. An 1894 diary entry from an Amherst College student who was asked to attend a prom near the women’s institution, Smith College, also mentions it. After a few years, high schools began to host proms.

These proms used to be hosted in college gyms, with senior classes convening for a couple of teas and beverages, mostly for mingling and dancing under crepe paper and in the eyes of chaperones. Since the 1930s, prom has been quite popular in America, with banquets and local bands becoming increasingly popular. Proms got more costly and sophisticated in the 1950s as Americans obtained more money and leisure time, similar to today’s proms. Sophomore dances (soph hop) may have been permitted in the high school gym, but junior prom and senior balls eventually shifted to hotel ballrooms and country clubs. Competition erupted as teenagers vied for the best outfit and mode of transportation and the best-looking date. Competition for the prom court also intensified, as the designation of “prom queen” became an important distinction of popularity.

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• How to write an essay introduction | 4 steps & examples

How to Write an Essay Introduction | 4 Steps & Examples

Published on February 4, 2019 by Shona McCombes . Revised on July 23, 2023.

A good introduction paragraph is an essential part of any academic essay . It sets up your argument and tells the reader what to expect.

The main goals of an introduction are to:

• Catch your reader’s attention.
• Give background on your topic.
• Present your thesis statement —the central point of your essay.

This introduction example is taken from our interactive essay example on the history of Braille.

The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability. The writing system of raised dots used by visually impaired people was developed by Louis Braille in nineteenth-century France. In a society that did not value disabled people in general, blindness was particularly stigmatized, and lack of access to reading and writing was a significant barrier to social participation. The idea of tactile reading was not entirely new, but existing methods based on sighted systems were difficult to learn and use. As the first writing system designed for blind people’s needs, Braille was a groundbreaking new accessibility tool. It not only provided practical benefits, but also helped change the cultural status of blindness. This essay begins by discussing the situation of blind people in nineteenth-century Europe. It then describes the invention of Braille and the gradual process of its acceptance within blind education. Subsequently, it explores the wide-ranging effects of this invention on blind people’s social and cultural lives.

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Table of contents

Step 1: hook your reader, step 2: give background information, step 3: present your thesis statement, step 4: map your essay’s structure, step 5: check and revise, more examples of essay introductions, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about the essay introduction.

Your first sentence sets the tone for the whole essay, so spend some time on writing an effective hook.

Avoid long, dense sentences—start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

The hook should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of the topic you’re writing about and why it’s interesting. Avoid overly broad claims or plain statements of fact.

Examples: Writing a good hook

Take a look at these examples of weak hooks and learn how to improve them.

• Braille was an extremely important invention.
• The invention of Braille was a major turning point in the history of disability.

The first sentence is a dry fact; the second sentence is more interesting, making a bold claim about exactly  why the topic is important.

• The internet is defined as “a global computer network providing a variety of information and communication facilities.”
• The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education.

Avoid using a dictionary definition as your hook, especially if it’s an obvious term that everyone knows. The improved example here is still broad, but it gives us a much clearer sense of what the essay will be about.

• Mary Shelley’s  Frankenstein is a famous book from the nineteenth century.
• Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale about the dangers of scientific advancement.

Instead of just stating a fact that the reader already knows, the improved hook here tells us about the mainstream interpretation of the book, implying that this essay will offer a different interpretation.

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Next, give your reader the context they need to understand your topic and argument. Depending on the subject of your essay, this might include:

• Historical, geographical, or social context
• An outline of the debate you’re addressing
• A summary of relevant theories or research about the topic
• Definitions of key terms

The information here should be broad but clearly focused and relevant to your argument. Don’t give too much detail—you can mention points that you will return to later, but save your evidence and interpretation for the main body of the essay.

How much space you need for background depends on your topic and the scope of your essay. In our Braille example, we take a few sentences to introduce the topic and sketch the social context that the essay will address:

Now it’s time to narrow your focus and show exactly what you want to say about the topic. This is your thesis statement —a sentence or two that sums up your overall argument.

This is the most important part of your introduction. A  good thesis isn’t just a statement of fact, but a claim that requires evidence and explanation.

The goal is to clearly convey your own position in a debate or your central point about a topic.

Particularly in longer essays, it’s helpful to end the introduction by signposting what will be covered in each part. Keep it concise and give your reader a clear sense of the direction your argument will take.

As you research and write, your argument might change focus or direction as you learn more.

For this reason, it’s often a good idea to wait until later in the writing process before you write the introduction paragraph—it can even be the very last thing you write.

When you’ve finished writing the essay body and conclusion , you should return to the introduction and check that it matches the content of the essay.

It’s especially important to make sure your thesis statement accurately represents what you do in the essay. If your argument has gone in a different direction than planned, tweak your thesis statement to match what you actually say.

To polish your writing, you can use something like a paraphrasing tool .

You can use the checklist below to make sure your introduction does everything it’s supposed to.

Checklist: Essay introduction

My first sentence is engaging and relevant.

I have introduced the topic with necessary background information.

I have defined any important terms.

My thesis statement clearly presents my main point or argument.

Everything in the introduction is relevant to the main body of the essay.

You have a strong introduction - now make sure the rest of your essay is just as good.

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This introduction to an argumentative essay sets up the debate about the internet and education, and then clearly states the position the essay will argue for.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

This introduction to a short expository essay leads into the topic (the invention of the printing press) and states the main point the essay will explain (the effect of this invention on European society).

In many ways, the invention of the printing press marked the end of the Middle Ages. The medieval period in Europe is often remembered as a time of intellectual and political stagnation. Prior to the Renaissance, the average person had very limited access to books and was unlikely to be literate. The invention of the printing press in the 15th century allowed for much less restricted circulation of information in Europe, paving the way for the Reformation.

This introduction to a literary analysis essay , about Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein , starts by describing a simplistic popular view of the story, and then states how the author will give a more complex analysis of the text’s literary devices.

Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein is often read as a crude cautionary tale. Arguably the first science fiction novel, its plot can be read as a warning about the dangers of scientific advancement unrestrained by ethical considerations. In this reading, and in popular culture representations of the character as a “mad scientist”, Victor Frankenstein represents the callous, arrogant ambition of modern science. However, far from providing a stable image of the character, Shelley uses shifting narrative perspectives to gradually transform our impression of Frankenstein, portraying him in an increasingly negative light as the novel goes on. While he initially appears to be a naive but sympathetic idealist, after the creature’s narrative Frankenstein begins to resemble—even in his own telling—the thoughtlessly cruel figure the creature represents him as.

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Your essay introduction should include three main things, in this order:

• An opening hook to catch the reader’s attention.
• Relevant background information that the reader needs to know.
• A thesis statement that presents your main point or argument.

The length of each part depends on the length and complexity of your essay .

The “hook” is the first sentence of your essay introduction . It should lead the reader into your essay, giving a sense of why it’s interesting.

To write a good hook, avoid overly broad statements or long, dense sentences. Try to start with something clear, concise and catchy that will spark your reader’s curiosity.

A thesis statement is a sentence that sums up the central point of your paper or essay . Everything else you write should relate to this key idea.

The thesis statement is essential in any academic essay or research paper for two main reasons:

• It gives your writing direction and focus.
• It gives the reader a concise summary of your main point.

Without a clear thesis statement, an essay can end up rambling and unfocused, leaving your reader unsure of exactly what you want to say.

The structure of an essay is divided into an introduction that presents your topic and thesis statement , a body containing your in-depth analysis and arguments, and a conclusion wrapping up your ideas.

The structure of the body is flexible, but you should always spend some time thinking about how you can organize your essay to best serve your ideas.

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• Writing Tips

How to Write an Excellent Essay Introduction

3-minute read

• 27th September 2022

Love it or hate it, essay writing is a big part of student life. Writing a great essay might seem like a daunting task, especially when you’re staring at a blank document, but there are formulas you can follow to make sure your paper hits the mark.

When you plan your essays , don’t neglect your introduction! It might seem like a trivial part of the paper, but it can make it or break it. A badly written introduction can leave your reader feeling confused about the topic and what to expect from your essay.

To help your writing reach its full potential, we’ve put together a guide to writing an excellent essay introduction.

How to Write an Essay Introduction

An essay introduction has four main steps:

●  Hook your reader

●  Provide context

●  Present your thesis statement

●  Map your essay

Hook Your Reader

The first part of your introduction should be the hook. This is where you introduce the reader to the topic of the essay. A great hook should be clear, concise, and catchy. It doesn’t need to be long; a hook can be just one sentence.

Provide Context

In this section, introduce your reader to key definitions, ideas, and background information to help them understand your argument.

Present Your Thesis Statement

A thesis statement tells the reader the main point or argument of the essay. This can be just one sentence, or it can be a few sentences.

Map Your Essay

Before you wrap up your essay introduction, map it! This means signposting sections of your essay. The key here is to be concise. The purpose of this part of the introduction is to give your reader a sense of direction.

Here’s an example of an essay introduction:

Hook: Suspense is key for dramatic stories, and Shakespeare is well-known and celebrated for writing suspenseful plays.

Context: While there are many ways in which Shakespeare created suspension for his viewers, two techniques he used effectively were foreshadowing and dramatic irony. Foreshadowing is a literary device that hints at an event or situation that is yet to happen. Dramatic irony is a literary technique, originally used in Greek tragedy, by which the full significance of a character’s words or actions is clear to the audience or reader, although it is unknown to the character.

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Thesis statement: Foreshadowing and dramatic irony are two powerful techniques that Shakespeare used to create suspense in literature. These methods have been used to keep the reader intrigued, excited, or nervous about what is to come in many of his celebrated works.

Essay mapping: In this essay, I will be detailing how Shakespeare uses foreshadowing and dramatic irony to create suspense, with examples from Romeo and Juliet and Othello.

Pro tip: Essays take twists and turns. We recommend changing your introduction as necessary while you write the main text to make sure it fully aligns with your final draft.

Proofread and Editing

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Prom 101 - What Happens on Prom Night and What to Expect

Find out everything you need to know about this major teen event, including when prom is, who goes to it, and how to make it fun.

Kate is an experienced writer who has written hundreds of articles for publication.

Learn about our Editorial Policy .

Prom night is a custom where high school juniors and seniors dress in formal attire and participate in activities surrounding a dance. Prom activities vary across the United States, but most traditions involve dates, prom dresses, tuxedos, dinner and dancing.

Traditionally considered a major rite of passage for teens, planning starts months in advance in order to remember all the little details that go with the event. This isn't just any dance, though. We're talking fancy gowns, flowers, jewelry, and limousines - plus all the other associated awesomeness of this night.

What Is Prom?

Prom is a formal dance and is usually the last dance of a senior's high school career. It's one last chance to get together as a class, have fun, and celebrate their accomplishments. In many schools, the junior prom and senior prom are held together, especially if the class isn't super large. However, in big schools, these can be two different events. Juniors usually have a lower budget for prom, so the event isn't quite as over-the-top when it comes to decorations and location.

• Should I Go to Prom? Important Things to Consider
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Prom is actually a shortened version of the word "promenade," which means to walk around in a formal and showy way. Back in the 1800s, it was an event for couples to walk together at a dance and show off their good manners and fine fashions. By the 1900s, it became the ultimate high school dance, and eventually, the walking or promenade part fell out of favor.

Why Is Prom Important?

Culturally, prom is a big deal. It's a rite of passage to adulthood from adolescence, and it's a major social event for teens. It's also a chance to show off your fashion sense (many little girls dream of their future prom dresses for years before the big event).

It can be a time for teens to have one last get-together with friends and classmates and celebrate the end of teen's high school career. It can be a special event for dating couples or those who choose to go solo. However, there's no requirement to attend prom, and not everyone feels it's important to go.

Who Goes to Prom?

In most schools, the juniors and seniors are allowed to purchase tickets for prom (costs generally range from about $20 to $200 for tickets). Each student can usually bring one date, and that person can be from another school or even a college. Asking someone to prom is a major social undertaking, and in recent years, promposals have become popular. Historically, it was common for a guy to ask a girl to prom , but things have changed in that respect. Today, pairs of any gender (or non-binary partners) go together.

Some students go to prom as a large group of friends, foregoing the date thing altogether. This is an awesome way to keep the event chill and take the romantic pressure off the social interactions.

It's important to note that not everyone goes to prom. Some people choose to skip it because it's not their thing, while others find the hefty cost of this event too high for their budgets (going to prom can cost several hundred dollars).

• Should I Go to Prom?

When Is Prom?

Prom is a springtime event, but the exact timing can vary depending on the school. Prom season can last for a couple of months with different area schools having prom on different weekends throughout the spring. Most proms happen in April or May when the weather is warm enough to make heavy winter coats unnecessary (nothing wrecks your formal look like a giant coat).

Although some schools hold prom on a Friday night, prom usually happens on Saturdays.

How Long Does Prom Last?

A typical prom is held on a Saturday evening for about four hours sometime between 7 p.m. and 2 a.m.

However, the events leading up to prom can make it into a multi-day event. In addition to the traditional prom planning tasks of buying or renting formalwear, arranging transportation, and other getting-ready tasks, many people extend the event by having before and after parties. There are lots of things to do before prom , including having hair and makeup done, getting a manicure, and getting dressed together as a group.

When Does Prom Planning Start?

Months before prom, the junior and senior classes start planning the event. They need to book a prom venue , arrange for music, and choose a prom theme .

About two months before the event, people start choosing formalwear and arranging for dates or groups of friends to go together.

• Prom Planning Checklist

Prom Day Traditions

Prom celebrations can start early in the day as everyone gets ready for the dance. If prom is being held on a Friday, some schools give kids a half day off to get ready. It takes time to get dressed and go through some of the major prom day traditions. These are a few of them:

• Hair styling - Many people choose to have their hair professionally styled for prom. This usually happens a few hours before the dance.
• Makeup - Not everyone wears makeup to prom, but those who do tend to take a little extra time to make sure it's perfect.
• Manicures - Pretty nails can be an important part of the prom look, and it's best to have them done close to day of the event so they don't get chipped or broken.
• Transportation - A lot of people choose to go to prom in a special car, either one that belongs to a family member or a rented limo. Picking up this car or confirming timing are part of the prom day activities.
• Flowers - Most people wear flowers for prom . These can be a gift from a date or something you choose for yourself. Because the flowers or corsage need to be fresh, it's traditional to pick them up the day of prom.

Groups of friends often get ready for prom together at one person's house. They might have a light snack and do one another's hair and makeup before taking photos.

Going to Prom

After everyone is ready, it's time to start the fun. Pre-prom events usually begin a couple of hours before the prom starts.

Pre-Prom Group Photos

The beginning of prom night usually kicks off with group photos. Teens, with and without dates, usually meet up in larger groups before dinner and prom. This is a chance for close friends to get pictures together and create a new memory. Look for a public place with a beautiful backdrop or get permission ahead to use a private location if you plan to take photos yourself.

Pick a specific time for photos and make sure all your friends and their parents know the plan. Depending on the size of the group, allow at least a half-hour, and up to an hour, for pictures. This is usually the only time parents are involved in prom night activities.

Once dates and groups are gathered, parents usually take pictures or have a photographer get some shots. Usually, everyone tries to get pictures of each teen alone, with their date if they have one, and with the entire group of friends. Teens can try out different serious and silly poses. Parents and teens can share these photos on social media for other family members to see.

• 15 Instagram-Worthy Places to Take Prom Pictures

Transportation for Prom

After the photos, people usually go to dinner. If there's a limo, the limo picks them up and takes them to a restaurant or the prom itself (if it includes dinner). If they're driving themselves, they leave after photos to attend.

Prom Night Dinner Plans

If your prom includes dinner, you'll head straight there after photos. This is more common if the prom is held at an event center or banquet hall. Dinner can take anywhere from one to two hours and may be a served meal you chose ahead of time or a buffet.

If your prom doesn't include a sit-down dinner, many teens make dinner plans with their dates or a small group. There are lots of options for prom dinner:

• Make reservations at a fancy restaurant. In this case, make sure you arrive on time so they don't give away your table.
• Drop in at a fast-food restaurant or diner. These places don't require reservations, are good for last-minute planning, are more affordable and make fun photo ops where teens are all dressed up in a casual place.
• Have a potluck dinner at home. One person hosts the dinner in their home and everyone brings a dish to share for a homestyle family meal.

Getting to the Dance

After dinner, it's time to go to prom. Prom locations include school gymnasiums, local banquet halls, and other event spaces. Parents need to know the name and address of the prom location in case of an emergency. However, this information is generally printed in a newsletter to parents, the tickets themselves, and even on a school's website.

What Happens at Prom

The actual events of prom start when people get to the dance. They hand their tickets to a teacher or parent chaperone helping with the event. Then they enter the venue, which is usually decorated in things like fancy streamers and sparkling lights.

Prom Pictures

The pictures you take at home aren't the only photographic record of prom night. Most schools have a photo booth set up for taking prom pictures. Couples or groups of friends pose together in front of a fun backdrop and get photos taken. You can buy prints of these photos or order digital files for sharing online.

Dancing at Prom

Although there are a ton of other traditions involved with prom, dancing is the main event. Most schools have a DJ to play music from a playlist the prom planning committee has arranged ahead of time. There's usually a mix of slow songs and fast songs. Couples dance together during the slow songs, and the faster songs often involve everyone dancing as a group.

Prom court nominees are selected during the school day in the week or two before prom. Some schools don't do prom court because it's viewed as an unnecessary popularity contest. Traditionally, only seniors can be nominated for king and queen , but sometimes juniors are also nominated for prince and princess.

Voting for prom court happens a few days before prom or at the actual event. Only teens get to vote, but teachers and administrators tally the votes and keep them secret until the announcement. During prom, chaperones announce and crown the winners in front of everyone. The elected king and queen usually share a dance together as well.

For many teens, a prom is an all-night event. After dinner and dancing, teens look for other ways to keep the fun going and spend more time together before graduation. These after prom activities are planned by parents and teachers or groups of teens.

School-Sponsored Events

Some schools, parent organizations, or community clubs host drug and alcohol-free after-prom parties , usually in the school building. These events start as soon as prom ends and feature organized activities, snacks, and raffle drawings. Events are usually free.

Teachers and parents volunteer to plan and chaperone, and the party can last until 8 a.m. Teens who attend are typically required to stay for the entire event, which can include a quiet area for those who are ready to get some sleep.

House Parties and Sleepovers

If your school doesn't offer an after-prom event, consider hosting one. Teens coordinate with their parents to plan activities and invite friends for an all-nighter, and some teens find ways to host unsupervised parties while parents are away. These parties typically involve word-of-mouth invites.

Most parties are supervised and don't involve drinking and drug use, despite the depictions in movies and on TV. Teens can't legally purchase alcohol, although some find a way to get beer and liquor anyway. About 29 percent of teens drink alcohol , including on prom night.

Prom Night Sex

In movies and TV shows, you often see teens losing their virginity or expecting sexual experiences on prom night. In one survey of over 12,000 teens , results showed that only 14 percent of girls said they had sex on prom night.

This real data seems to say that prom night sex is more of an urban legend rather than a popular activity. Your teen can talk to their date about sexual expectations before prom night and should feel comfortable expressing their preference to not engage at any point in the evening.

Parents can talk to teens about views on sex and other sexual activities before, on, and after prom night. When you talk to your teen about sex, remember to:

• Listen to them
• Provide factual and accurate information
• Be prepared to answer uncomfortable questions
• Withhold judgment

Everyone's Prom Night Is a Little Different

The prom experience is unique to each person and varies from school to school. Learn all you can about the times and locations of various prom night activities to be best prepared for the evening. The goal for teens is to have fun with friends, celebrate the transition from childhood to adulthood, and just have a great time dressing up and dancing.

What is prom, and why is prom important?

Prom is more than a dance. It's a journey filled with traditions, thoughtful preparations, etiquette norms, budgeting, and safety considerations that all come together to create an unforgettable event. Yes, it’s a lot! Let’s walk through it so you can help your teenager prep for prom.

.css-26rqae{font-weight:500;} What is prom? 

Prom, short for promenade, is a semi-formal dance usually held toward the end of high school. It's a celebration and final send-off for graduating students before they embark on their next journey. Typically, prom takes place in late spring and is often considered a rite of passage for teenagers.

The importance of prom

Prom holds different levels of significance for different people. For some, it's a chance to dress up and have a fun night with friends. For others, it's an opportunity to create lasting memories before parting ways with classmates and entering adulthood. No matter the significance, prom is a special event that marks an important milestone in many people’s lives.

Prom traditions: The essence of the occasion

Prom traditions make this event truly special. These are some of the most popular prom traditions, from old to new.

Corsage and boutonniere

One of the most iconic prom traditions is the exchange of corsages and boutonnieres. Corsages are small floral arrangements usually worn on the wrist or pinned to a dress. Boutonnieres are smaller versions worn on the lapel of a tuxedo or suit jacket. This tradition dates back to ancient Greece, where men would wear corsages to symbolize their love and affection for their partners. Today, it's a popular way for prom dates to show appreciation and affection for each other.

Prom king and queen

Crowning the prom king and queen is a popular tradition that’s been around for decades. This practice started in the 1930s to celebrate and honor students who excelled in academics, athletics, and extracurricular activities. Today, it's a highly anticipated moment at most proms when students vote for which peers to hold those coveted titles.

In recent years, “promposals” have become an increasingly popular way of asking someone to prom. A promposal is a creative, sometimes elaborate way of popping the prom-date question. From presenting a bouquet to showing up with elaborate signs and surprise performances, students are getting more creative in their requests. Promposals allow teens to put their spin on this time-honored school tradition.

The ultimate list of prom FAQs

Q: How much does it typically cost to attend prom? A: The cost can vary widely depending on ticket prices, attire, and transportation. It can range from $50 to several hundred.

Q: Is there usually adult supervision at prom? A: Usually, school faculty and parent volunteers supervise the event.

Q: Can my child go to prom without a date? A: Absolutely! Many students attend prom with friends or independently.

Q: What are the safety measures in place at prom? A: Schools typically implement security measures such as chaperones, strict entry and exit rules, and sometimes even security officers, depending on the venue.

Q: What is the dress code for prom? A: Prom is usually semi-formal or formal, with students wearing cocktail dresses, suits, evening gowns, and tuxedos.

Q: What types of activities happen at prom? A: Besides dancing, there might be a meal, photo opportunities, contests, and the crowning of a prom king and queen.

Q: Can my child attend prom if they're not a senior? A: This depends on school policy. Some schools allow juniors and even first- and second-year students to attend, often as the date of a senior.

Q: How can I ensure my child makes responsible choices at prom? A: Open communication, setting clear expectations, and trust are essential.

Q: How can I help my child prepare for prom? A: You can help them shop and buy their outfit, arrange transportation, and discuss expectations and safety.

Q: Do all schools have a prom king and queen? A: Not all, but many schools uphold this tradition.

Q: Is prom a good opportunity for my child to learn social etiquette? A: Yes, prom can teach students about formal social manners, respect, and courtesy. 

Q: What if my child has social anxiety? A: It's important to discuss with your child and possibly a counselor to determine if attending prom is the right choice.

Q: Can prom be a good bonding experience for my child and their friends? A: Many students find prom a special time to create shared memories with friends.

Q: Can my child be expelled from prom for misbehavior? A: Students are expected to follow a code of conduct at any school and could be asked to leave for inappropriate behavior.

Q: Can I chaperone at prom? A: Policies vary by school, but many allow for parent volunteers.

Q: What if my child doesn't want to go to prom? A: That's perfectly okay. Prom isn't for everyone, and there are many other ways to celebrate the end of high school.

Q: Are there any age restrictions for attending prom? A: Typically, only high school students are allowed to attend prom. Check your school’s specific prom guidelines.

Q: What if my child wants to go with someone from a different school? A: It's best to check with the respective schools' policies and coordinate transportation if needed.

Q: Can my child bring a friend as their date instead of a romantic partner? A: Absolutely! Prom is for everyone, not just couples.

Q: What if my child doesn't know how to dance? A: That's perfectly normal. Many students attend prom just to have fun and don’t worry about their dancing skills. But of course, you can always sponsor classes if your teen wants to master a specific dance.

Final thoughts on prom

Prom is a milestone in a teenager's life. It's a night filled with tradition, preparation, etiquette, budgeting, and safety considerations. Above all, it's a night for enjoyment and creating lasting memories with friends. 

For more ideas and tips on managing your teen's milestones, visit the Greenlight Learning Center for valuable family and parenting insights.

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Awesome Guide on How to Write an Essay Introduction

'I'd like to recall the day I nearly burned myself in flames in my automobile while going 250 mph and escaping the police'. – Thankfully, we don't have a story like that to relate to, but we bet we piqued your interest.

That's what we refer to as an efficient hook. Fundamentally, it's an attention-grabbing first sentence that piques an audience's interest and encourages them to keep reading. While writing an essay, a strong hook in essay introductions is essential.

Delve into the article if you're wondering how to start an essay with a strong introduction. This is the ultimate guide for writing the parts of a introduction paragraph from our custom dissertation writing service to engage your readers.

Introduction Definition

The introduction paragraph, to put it simply, is the first section of an essay. Thus, when reading your essay, the reader will notice it right away. What is the goal of an opening paragraph? There are two things that an excellent introduction achieves. It initially informs the reader on the subject of your work; in other words, it should describe the essay's topic and provide some background information for its main point. It must also spark readers' interest and persuade them to read the remainder of your article.

To provide you with essay writing services , we only need your paper requirements to create a plagiarism-free paper on time.

How Long Should an Introduction Be

Typically, there are no strict restrictions on how long an opening paragraph should be. Professional essay writers often shape the size of it with the paper's total length in mind. For instance, if you wonder how to make introduction in essay with five paragraphs, keep your introductory sentence brief and fit it inside a single section. But, if you're writing a longer paper, let's say one that's 40 pages, your introduction could need many paragraphs or even be pages long.

Although there are no specific requirements, seasoned writers advise that your introduction paragraph should account for 8% to 9% of your essay's overall word length.

And, if you place an order on our coursework writing services , we will certainly comply with your introduction length requirements.

What Makes a Good Introduction

All of the following criteria should be fulfilled by a strong opening sentence:

• Start your introduction on an essay with a catchy sentence that draws the reader in.
• It needs to include baseline information about your subject.
• This should give readers a sense of the main argument(s) that your essay will address.
• It must include all necessary information on the setting, locations, and chronological events.
• By the end of your introduction, make a precise remark that serves as your essay's thesis.

What Are the 3 Parts of an Introduction Paragraph

So, what should be in a introduction paragraph? The introduction format essay has three sections: a hook, connections, and a thesis statement. Let's examine each component in more depth.

Part 1: Essay Hook

A hook is among the most effective parts of a introduction paragraph to start an essay. A strong hook will always engage the reader in only one sentence. In other words, it is a selling point.

Let's now address the query, 'how to make an essay introduction hook interesting?'. Well, to create a powerful hook, you can employ a variety of techniques:

• A shocking fact
• An anecdote 
• A short summary

And here is what to avoid when using a hook:

• Dictionary definitions
• Generalizations
• Sweeping statements that include words like 'everywhere,' 'always,' etc.

Once you've established a strong hook, you should give a general outline of your major point and some background information on the subject of your paper. If you're unsure how to write an introduction opening, the ideal approach is to describe your issue briefly before directing readers to particular areas. Simply put, you need to give some context before gradually getting more specific with your opinions.

The 5 Types of Hooks for Writing

Apart from the strategies mentioned above, there are even more types of hooks that can be used:

• A Common Misconception — a good trick, to begin with, to claim that something your readers believe in is false.

Example: 'Although many falsely believe that people working from home are less productive – employees who get such work-life benefits generally work harder.'

• Statistics — Statistical facts may provide a great hook for argumentative essays and serious subjects focusing on statistics.

Example: 'A recent study showed that people who are satisfied with their work-life balance work 21% harder and are 33% more likely to stay at the same company.'

• Personal Story — sometimes, personal stories can be an appropriate hook, but only if they fit into a few brief sentences (for example, in narrative essays).

Example: 'When I had my first work-from-home experience, I suddenly realized the importance of having a good work-life balance; I saw plenty of the benefits it can provide.'

• Scenes — this type of hook requires making the readers imagine the things you are writing about. It is most suitable when used in descriptive and narrative essays.

Example: 'Imagine you could have as much free time as you wish by working or studying from home—and spend more time with your loved ones.'

• Thesis Statement — when unsure how to do an essay introduction, some writers start directly with their thesis statement. The main trick here is that there is no trick.

Example: 'I strongly believe there is a direct correlation between a healthy work-life balance and productivity in school or at work.'

Part 2: Connections

Give readers a clearer sense of what you will discuss throughout your article once you have given a hook and relevant background information about your essay topic. Briefly mentioning your main points in the same sequence in which you will address them in your body paragraphs can help your readers progressively arrive at your thesis statement.

In this section of your introduction, you should primarily address the following questions:

You may make sure that you are giving your readers all the information they need to understand the subject of your essay by responding to each of these questions in two to three lines. Be careful to make these statements brief and to the point, though.

Your main goal is gradually moving from general to specific facts about your subject or thesis statement. Visualize your introduction as an upside-down triangle to simplify the essay writing process. The attention-grabbing element is at the top of this triangle, followed by a more detailed description of the subject and concluding with a highly precise claim. Here is some quick advice on how to use the 'upside-down triangle' structure to compose an essay introduction:

• Ensure that each subsequent line in your introduction is more focused and precise. This simple method will help you progressively introduce the main material of your piece to your audience.
• Consider that you are writing a paper on the value of maintaining a healthy work-life balance. In this situation, you may start with a query like, 'Have you ever considered how a healthy work-life balance can affect other areas of your life?' or a similar hook. Next, you could proceed by giving broad factual information. Finally, you could focus your topic on fitting your thesis statement.

Part 3: The Thesis Statement

If you're unsure of the ideal method to create an introduction, you should be particularly attentive to how you phrase your thesis statement.

The thesis of your work is, without a doubt, the most crucial section. Given that the thesis statement of your piece serves as the foundation for the entire essay, it must be presented in the introduction. A thesis statement provides readers with a brief summary of the article's key point. Your main assertion is what you'll be defending or disputing in the body of your essay. An effective thesis statement is often one sentence long, accurate, exact, unambiguous, and focused. Your thesis should often be provided at the end of your introduction.

Here is an example thesis statement for an essay about the value of a proper work-life balance to help you gain a better understanding of what a good thesis should be:

Thesis Statement Example: 'Creating flexible and pleasant work schedules for employees can help them have a better work-life balance while also increasing overall performance.'

Catchy Introductions for Different Essay Types

Although opening paragraphs typically have a fixed form, their language may vary. In terms of academic essays, students are often expected to produce four primary intro to essay examples. They include articles that are analytical, argumentative, personal, and narrative. It is assumed that different information should appear in these beginning paragraphs since the goals of each sort of essay change. A thorough overview of the various paper kinds is provided below, along with some good essay introduction samples from our argumentative essay writers:

Narrative Introduction

• The writer of a narrative essay must convey a story in this style of writing. Such essays communicate a story, which distinguishes them from other essay types in a big way.
• Such a paper's hook will often be an enticing glimpse into a specific scene that only loosely links to the thesis statement. Additionally, when writing such an essay, a writer should ensure that every claim included in the introduction relates to some important moments that have significantly impacted the story's outcome.
• The thesis in narrative writing is usually the theme or main lesson learned from the story.

Narrative introduction example: 'My phone rang, and my mother told me that Dad had suffered a heart attack. I suddenly experienced a sense of being lifted out from under me by this immaculately carpeted flooring. After making it through, Dad left me with a sizable collection of lessons. Here are three principles that I know dad would have wanted me to uphold...'

Still Can't Think of a Perfect Intro?

When assigned to write an essay, students end up with a ton of questions, including 'How to structure an essay?', 'How to choose a good topic?'. Here at EssayPro, we employ only the best essay writers who are committed to students’ success.

Analytical Introduction

• Analytical essay introduction format is another popular type. In contrast to a narrative paper, an analytical paper seeks to explore an idea and educate the reader about a topic.
• Three important facts that support the analytical premise should be included in the middle section of the introduction.
• A well-researched and well-thought-out claim will form a wonderful thesis because the main goal of this paper is to study the topic and educate readers. It's crucial to remember that this assertion shouldn't initially have any real weight. Although it will still be theoretical, it has to be articulated practically.

Analytical introduction example: “... Hence even though presidents, CEOs, and generals still have their daily schedules full of economic crises and military conflicts, on the cosmic scale of history humankind can lift its eyes up and start looking towards new horizons. If we bring famine, plague, and war under control, what will replace them at the top of the human agenda? Like firefighters in a world without fire, so humankind in the twenty-first century needs to ask itself an unprecedented question: what are we going to do with ourselves? What will demand our attention and ingenuity in a healthy, prosperous, and harmonious world? In a healthy, prosperous, and harmonious world, what will demand our attention and ingenuity? This question becomes doubly urgent given the immense new powers that biotechnology and information technology are providing us with. What will we do with all that power? ...” Homo Deus: A Brief History of Tomorrow, Yuval Noah Harari

Persuasive Introduction

• To persuade readers of anything is the sole goal of persuasive essay writing. This may be accomplished using persuasive strategies like ethos, pathos, and logos.
• A hook statement for this paper may be anything from a fascinating fact to even comedy. You can use whatever technique you choose. The most crucial advice is to ensure your hook is in line with your thesis and that it can bolster further justifications.
• Generally speaking, a persuasive essay must include three supporting facts. Hence, to gradually lead readers to the major topic of your paper, add a quick summary of your three arguments in your introduction.
• Last, the thesis statement should be the main claim you will be disputing in this paper. It should be a brief, carefully thought-out, and confident statement of your essay's major argument.

Persuasive introduction example: 'Recycling waste helps to protect the climate. Besides cleaning the environment, it uses waste materials to create valuable items. Recycling initiatives must be running all around the world. ...'

Personal Introduction

• The final sort of academic writing that students frequently encounter is a personal essay. In principle, this essay style is creative nonfiction and requires the author to reflect on personal experiences. The goals of such a paper may be to convey a story, discuss the lessons that certain incidents have taught you, etc. This type of writing is unique since it is the most personal.
• Whatever topic you choose can serve as the hook for such an essay. A pertinent remark, query, joke, or fact about the primary plot or anything else will be acceptable. The backdrop of your narrative should then be briefly explained after that. Lastly, a thesis statement can describe the impact of particular experiences on you and what you learned.

Personal introduction example: 'My parents always pushed me to excel in school and pursue new interests like playing the saxophone and other instruments. I felt obligated to lead my life in a way that met their standards. Success was always expected on the route they had set out for me. Yet eight years after my parents' separation, this course was diverted when my dad relocated to California...'

Tips for Writing a Winning Introduction Paragraph

You now understand how to do introduction and have specific intro example for essays to help you get going. Let's quickly examine what you should and shouldn't do during the writing process.

• Keep the assignment's purpose in mind when you write your introduction, and ensure it complies with your instructor's requirements.
• Use a compelling and relevant hook to grab the reader's attention immediately.
• Make sure your readers understand your perspective to make it apparent.
• If necessary, establish key terms related to your subject.
• Show off your expertise on the subject.
• Provide a symbolic road map to help readers understand what you discuss throughout the post.
• Be brief; it's recommended that your introduction make up no more than 8 to 9 percent of the entire text (for example, 200 words for a 2500 words essay).
• Construct a strong thesis statement.
• Create some intrigue.
• Make sure there is a clear and smooth transition from your introduction to the body of your piece.
• If you're looking for a custom writer , request assistance from the EssayPro team. We know how to write a term paper along with many other types of essays.

Don'ts

• Provide too much background information.
• Use sentences that are off-topic or unnecessary.
• Make your opening paragraph excessively long.
• Keep some information a secret and reveal it later in conclusion.
• Employ overused phrases or generalizations.
• Using quotation marks excessively

Now that you know what is in the introduction of an essay, we recommend reading the information on how to critique an article to gain more academic insight.

If you are still struggling with that, keep in mind that you can always send us your request to get professional assistance from our law essay writing service .

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How Prom Traditions Have Evolved Through History

By: Lesley Kennedy

Updated: April 27, 2023 | Original: April 28, 2023

Prom, an iconic rite of passage for many teenagers, has been a tradition celebrated by students since the late 19th century. Short for "promenade,” proms are modeled after the debutante balls of high society and have evolved from semi-formal end-of-the-year dances held in school gyms to become a billion-dollar industry encompassing limousines, flowers, photography, special attire and over-the-top invitations.

Early Origins of Prom

The concept of a celebratory event for young people traces back to ancient Greece , when formal banquets, called “symposia,” were held for elite men to honor their transition into adult society. Often featuring lavish dinner parties, theatrical performances, speeches, debate, music and general revelry, the gatherings also involved excessive wine drinking. ancient Romans celebrated a young man’s coming of age with a similar banquet, called a “convivium.” 

In 18th- and 19th-century Europe, women participated in aristocratic formal dances and balls that grew in popularity, with debutante balls becoming common as coming-out ceremonies for the elite.

The First American Proms

According to the Oxford Dictionaries, the word promenade, defined as a leisurely walk or place for walking, is also used to describe movements in ballet and ballroom dancing. It morphed in the late 19th century when promenade concerts often included attendees dancing in formal attire during Ivy League college festivities. 

Although it’s not clear who hosted the first American prom, an article in the December 5, 1879, issue of The Harvard Crimson references the “Junior Prom,” and an 1895 diary entry from then-Amherst student Dwight Morrow, who later served as an ambassador to Mexico and U.S. senator, cited that he had been invited to a junior prom at Smith College. An 1895 photo in the Smith archives shows a junior prom held at the school’s Alumnae Gymnasium. 

Prom Gets Popularized

The popularity of the dances quickly spread to high schools, becoming what Amy Best calls in her book, Prom Night: Youth, Schools and Popular Culture , “a democratized version of the debutante ball.” 

“The prom afforded anyone attending high school the opportunity to feel as though they too were ‘coming out,’ that they could transcend the boundaries of class,” she writes. “The message was that you did not have to be rich to wear a fancy frock, to be adorned with a corsage, or to waltz the night away.”

Proms experienced a surge in popularity in the early 1930s, and, in 1936, The Junior-Senior Prom served as the first guidebook for students attending the dance. A May 18, 1934, article in The Stanford Daily reported on that evening’s junior prom, held in the women’s gym, noting its decor would feature a mini replica of San Francisco “as a panorama surrounding the penthouse” along with trellises filled with climbing roses, sparkling fountains and red and white awnings. 

By the 1940s, when teens came to be considered a distinct consumer category, the trend really took off, and the late 1940s and 1950s became the “golden age of prom,” writes Ann Anderson in High School Prom: Marketing, Morals and the American Teen . During this time, dances began moving from school gyms to luxe hotels and banquet rooms, and the crowning of prom kings and queens became commonplace.  

Presidential Proms

President John F. Kennedy made news on June 7, 1963, when he stopped by the John Burroughs High School senior prom, held in the bigger ballroom at the Beverly Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles, after attending a fundraiser in the smaller upstairs ballroom. The president, along with comedian Jack Benny, addressed the teens . 

“Actually, this is a better room than the room we have upstairs,” he told the teens to laughter and applause. “Next to being president—in fact rather than being president—I’d prefer to be a senior in this high school. And if Mr. Benny and I are not too old, we may apply.” 

Susan Ford, daughter of President Gerald Ford and First Lady Betty Ford , hosted the first and only White House prom about a decade later, on May 31, 1975. Susan, a senior at the all-girls Holton-Arms School in Bethesda, Maryland, and her class paid for the evening from fundraising efforts, according to the Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library & Museum . The prom committee made their own tablecloths and flower arrangements.

The menu included punch, miniature quiche lorraine and pigs-in-a-blanket hors d’oeuvres. Entertainment came from rock groups the Outerspace Band and Sandcastle. (The Beach Boys, reportedly, were too expensive.)

Her parents, however, did not serve as chaperones, as they were out of the country. (Ford did speak at the school’s graduation ceremony a few days later.)

Proms Evolve

Political unrest and the counterculture movements of the 1960s and 1970s reduced the popularity of prom, leading many schools to cancel the dances altogether. But the lull didn’t last long. By the 1980s, attending the big dance came back into style, as evidenced by a host of popular, enduring prom-themed movies from the decade, including Pretty in Pink and Footloose . 

However, despite their popularity, proms have not been without controversy. In the Jim Crow South , many schools held segregated proms , a practice that continued well past the passage of civil rights laws. It wasn’t until 2013 that Wilcox County High School in Georgia held its first school-sponsored desegregated prom. In 2010, a school in Fulton, Mississippi barred a lesbian from attending prom with her girlfriend and told her she couldn’t wear a tuxedo. She sued the school after it canceled the dance for all students rather than allow the couple to attend. The school settled and agreed to create a policy banning discrimination or harassment based on gender identity and sexual orientation. In the 2000s, students have held their own alternative—or “anti”—proms with religious, LGBTQ+ and other themes. 

Still, today’s proms are big business: According to a 2015 Visa survey , the average cost of prom was $919 per person, which includes everything from attire and flowers to dinner, tickets, limo services, photography and after parties, as well as the phenomenon of “promposals.” The survey found that American households spent an average of $324 alone on this practice of making elaborate, over-the-top invitations to the dance.

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