SAQ Writing Workshop Writing in History essays are

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SAQ Writing Workshop

SAQ Writing Workshop

Writing in History essays are, at their core, about two main components: ◦ Argument

Writing in History essays are, at their core, about two main components: ◦ Argument ◦ Evidence Said argument, and the evidence to support it, must be organized in a way that allows the reader to follow along easily.

How does this relate to SAQs? An SAQ is essentially a hyper-condensed essay. Thus,

How does this relate to SAQs? An SAQ is essentially a hyper-condensed essay. Thus, the principles of history writing still apply, but in a modified format. Since you have such limited space (2 -3 sentences per part) your answers must be: ◦ Accurate ◦ Brief ◦ Right to the point of the question being asked

Types of SAQs In an SAQ, each question will have at least one of

Types of SAQs In an SAQ, each question will have at least one of the following: ◦ Identify- make your basic point or claim. ◦ Explain- provide evidence to support your identification of a point, make something more clear, describe in more detail. Mental framework for identification and explanation: ◦ CD- Concrete Detail. This is a clear statement of fact that answers the question in a direct and “basic” way. This is your main assertion or argument. ◦ CM- Commentary. This is when you should be expanding upon your concrete detail with any additional relevant information that is still specifically linked to the question being asked.

Instructions for SAQs 1. Read the question(s) and look at any given materials. 2.

Instructions for SAQs 1. Read the question(s) and look at any given materials. 2. For each question, discern if it is an identify or explain question (or both). 3. Figure out what period the question is asking you to reference when answering. 4. Scan your brain for relevant and accurate historical information you can use to answer the question. (sort your knowledge) 5. Plan and revise the structure of your response until it answers the question as clearly and thoroughly as needed to receive credit. 6. Write your final response.

Tips for SAQs Don’t make the scorers hunt for your answer to the question.

Tips for SAQs Don’t make the scorers hunt for your answer to the question. ◦ Bottom Line up front- BLUF. There is a difference between being artful and overly wordy in writing. ◦ Over time you will develop your own style of writing that you feel best conveys your answer/argument in a concise but robust way. Explain section- often losing points because only expanding on the “what, ” not the “how” or “why” ◦ The information needs to be used to explicitly make connections to the prompt when asked to explain. Don’t get lost in the question- remain focused in your answer. On the AP exam, if it is an ID+Explain question you must do both to receive credit.

Sample Question Set Answer parts a, b, and c. a) Explain ONE cause of

Sample Question Set Answer parts a, b, and c. a) Explain ONE cause of the Columbian Exchange. b) Explain ONE effect of the Columbian Exchange on the Americas. c) Explain ONE effect of the Columbian Exchange on Afro-Eurasia.