How to Write a DBQ Document Based Questions

How to Write a DBQ! Document Based Questions

What is a “DBQ? ” • An essay that answers a specific question. • An essay that cites specific documents to support the writer’s point.

1. “Read” (Analyze) the Documents 5. Write an awesome DBQ! How to write a great DBQ 4. Organize the Essay 2. Group the Documents 3. Write an amazing thesis

1. Analyzing the Documents • Not about paraphrasing • Show that you know what the doc means by using it to answer the question. • Analyze for POV: SOAPSTone or APPARTS: – Who? When? Where? Why? For whom? What is the author’s POV? Is it reliable or not? • Important facts? • Inferences? • Main idea? • How does this document answer the question? [Which bucket does it fit into? ]

2. Grouping/“Bucketing” Documents • Group your documents into 3 “buckets” – consider grouping by similar qualities, contents, or purposes. • Each group is the basis of a paragraph. Docs 1, 3, 7 Docs 4, 10, 11 Docs 2, 13 • Use all of the documents!!!!!

3. Write an AWESOME Thesis • • • Great essays have a clear thesis statement – Answers the question- (indicates era or time period) – Takes a position Preview main points – “road map” of the essay (your buckets!) Think of it like a “chicken-foot” Point 1 THESIS Point 2 Point 3

Using the “Chicken Foot” • Thesis is the leg • Each group (main point) will branch out with supporting ideas. (toes) n io s r The Islamic empire spread through conversion, cultural interaction, and the skill of Arab leaders. : 1 # e v on c #2: cultural interaction #3 : sk ill o lea f der Arab s

4. Organize the DBQ • Introductory Paragraph – Thesis Statement! • Body Paragraph – Docs __, __, and __ – At least one POV • Body Paragraph – Docs __, and __ – At least one POV

Are We Finished? • No!! • Include the “missing voice” • What “voice” (POV) is not represented in the documents? • Whose “voice” would help you answer the question? • Identify a document; bill of sale, ship manifest, diary entry, census report, bank deposits, itemized statement, etc. • Think about: religion, gender, occupation, social status, time, etc • Why do you want this POV? Would it confirm or refute your thesis?

Where should you include the “Missing Voice”? • • Anywhere As soon as possible In thesis At the end of a body paragraph At the end in its own paragraph Even in the conclusion is fine Just don’t forget to include it!!!

5. Write your Essay! • Outline provides structure • Keep the body paragraphs in the order of your thesis statement • Create an intro and conclusion!

The Introductory Paragraph • Establish TIME & PLACE. • Use a clear THESIS STATEMENT. • Allude to the MAIN POINTS or categories that develop and support thesis statement • – (your “buckets” of documents) Focus on the question at hand—do NOT begin with a “flowery” sentence!

Body Paragraphs • Identify sub-topic or category in the first sentence. • Include the documents that are relevant to support the ideas in the paragraph. • Use all of the documents given. • Complete at least one POV analysis-is the source reliable or not? Why? • Bring in supportive outside information. • “Missing Voice”

Conclusion • Not necessary but if you do… • Start with a “concluding phrase. ” • Restate your thesis statement a bit differently. • Put your essay answer in a larger historical perspective-global perspective.

You’re Ready! Now go conquer your DBQ!