How do I write a concise but high-scoring introduction for an A2 essay?

Your introduction should usually consist of four different components. Let's deconstruct this using the question 'Can globalisation narrow the gap between rich and poor?' Firstly, it is important to define any key terms in the introduction. This will help the examiner see what your understanding of a certain term is, which will help frame the rest of your essay, particularly if the definition of the term is contested. For example, if defining 'globalisation', a short definition such as 'the increasing interdependence and interconnection of the world's economies and peoples' will help to focus your answer to the question on the concepts of interdependence and interconnection. Next, put the essay in context to show any wider relevance of the question. In this case, this could be an explanation of popular responses to globalisation and inequality, such as a recognition of media scrutiny of this topic, or historic attitudes to increased interconnection. Thirdly, state clearly what your answer to the question is. This will quite often not be a simple yes or no. In this example, you may wish to argue that globalisation does sometimes narrow the gap, but sometimes it widens it. Finally, outline your essay structure to make it clear to the examiner where the essay is going. A sentence such as 'This will be shown through the comparison of the UK, an MEDC, Vietnam, an NIC, and Kenya, an LEDC' introduces your paragraph themes to the examiner. If you have all of these four things, your essay introduction will be clear and concise! I would recommend planning the whole essay before writing your introduction, so your structure and argument will be easy to outline.