Slide 1 Writing the DBQ DocumentBased Question Slide

Slide 1 Writing the DBQ: Document-Based Question

Slide 2 What is the Document-Based Question? l A document-based question requires students to defend an assertion by using an analysis of historical documents and outside knowledge (previous knowledge) of a specific time period and topic.

Slide 3 Solving a Mystery Writing a DBQ is similar to solving a mystery or a crime l You need to use your previous knowledge along with the evidence (the documents) to help solve the mystery – the question that is being asked. l As is true with a mystery or crime, some evidence is better than other evidence! l

Slide 4 Best Practices l One of the best ways to prepare for the DBQ on the AP Exam is to have students practice categorizing the documents based on the question

Slide 5 Six Steps to Answering a Document-Based Question 1. 2. 3. Read the question, and make sure you understand all parts of the question. “Cluster” outside information (use a web) to establish outside/previous knowledge. Read the documents, and analyze each document as you read. 4. Make an assertion – formulate a thesis, ensuring that it directly answers the questions. 5. Use the “Yes/But” Strategy to form the defense of your assertion and to test your assertion. 6. Write the essay. (Note: on the AP exam students have 60 minutes to work on the DBQ. Spend 15 -20 minutes on the first five steps. Spend 40 -45 minutes writing the essay.

Slide 6 Step Five: Yes/But Here is where you will up your score by recognizing the other side of the assertion you made – and then destroying it in your writing. l “Although slavery was morally and socially wrong, the thirteen colonies could not have been economically successful without the institution of slavery. ” l You recognize that slavery is wrong, you do not hide this fact, but will convince the reader that the economic situation made it a “necessary evil. ” l

Slide 7 Basic Facts l l DBQ essays with no outside information or analysis will receive a score no higher than a four. Students need to stay within the time period of the question Students who effectively use Yes/But statements drive their scores up. Avoid quoting long passages – focus on analysis, not regurgitation.

Slide 8 Basic Facts, cont. Analyze and make inferences, do not simply repeat what the document says l Always refer to the document parenthetical by the title of the document, NOT by its letter! l Students should use the introductory paragraph to define terms, provide historical background, define the time period, and state points of validation. Keep introductory information to a minimum. l

Slide 9 Basic Facts, cont. Students should use specific names, terms and events l Always make sure that you keep returning to the main topic/your thesis – do not wander! l Lastly, use as many documents as you can, but you do not need to use every single one. Aim to use half plus one. l Know the difference between description and analysis l

Slide 10 Citing Documents l When citing documents do’s and don’ts – Do no begin a statement • “…. . as seen in document A” • “In document B …. . ” • “Document C stated…. ” – Write about the document – make inferences at the end (doc A)

Slide 11 Ready, Set, Go!! Now you have the basic formula for writing a successful DBQ. l We will work on this skill together all year long -- HOW EXCITING!!! l