How to Write a DBQ!

1. How to Write a DBQ! Document Based Questions

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

3. How to write a great DBQ 1. Analyze the Documents 2. Group the Documents 5. Now you write your DBQ! 3. Write an amazing thesis 4. Organize the Essay

4. 1. Analyzing the Documents Source: • point of view or possible bias? • Important facts? • Inferences/ Stereotypes • How does this document answer the question? [Which category does it fit into?] • When does it take place? • Who is writing it? • What is the artist’s goal? • What is your classroom topic (find that link)!

5. 2. Grouping/“Bucketing” Documents • Group your documents into 3 categories • consider grouping by similar qualities, contents, or purposes. • Each group is the basis of a paragraph. • Be sure to use all of the documents to get full credit for the essay. Docs 4, 10, 11 Docs 2, 13 Docs 1, 3, 7

6. Point 1 THESIS Point 2 Point 3 Write an AWESOME Thesis • Great essays have a clear thesis statement • Answers the question (Even when there isn’t a question, there is still a question) • Takes a position • Preview main points • “road map” of the essay (your buckets!) • Think of it like a “chicken-foot”

7. Using the “Chicken Foot” • Thesis is the leg • Each group (main point) will branch out with supporting ideas. (toes) Reason 1 WWII created strong economic longevity because… Reason 2 Reason 3

8. 4. Organize the DBQ • Introductory Paragraph • Thesis Statement! • Source one • Just describe what the source is arguing (give evidence for your claims • Source two • Just describe what the source is arguing (give evidence for your claims • Source three • Just describe what the source is arguing (give evidence for your claims • Final paragraph • Now you explain how these three sources are all connected. This is where you prove your thesis statement.

9. 5. Write your Essay! • Outline provides structure • Keep the body paragraphs in the order of your thesis statement • Create your connection paragraph and then your thesis/ intro last!

10. Body Paragraphs • Identify sub-topic or category in the first sentence. This is your mini thesis of what you think this source(s) is arguing • Include the sources that are relevant to support the ideas in the paragraph. –If more than one) • Establish an argument from, or meaning of the source. • Provide evidence from the source as to what led you to your “thesis” (Key terms, ideas, people, time period, data, stereotypes, etc. • Link that evidence to main ideas from the class. • Conclude with how it links to your topic/question

11. Final Paragraph • This is where you link all your sources together. Use your topic question to guide you in how you make that link. • From that you will form a thesis ! • Provide evidence from each source (use your main points) to provide a link • It is ok to include new information (from the class) to bring your connection home. • Do not jump all over the place! Stay on topic and go in depth with one argument rather than several. (Find the link between the sources!)

12. The Introductory Paragraph (Done last!) • Establish TIME & PLACE. This is you establishing how you wish to answer your question. It provides relevance for your thesis. • Use a clear THESIS STATEMENT. • Allude to the MAIN POINTS or categories that develop and support your thesis statement (But don’t over do this) • (your “Categories” for your documents) • Focus on the question at hand—do NOT begin with a “Superficial” sentence!

13. You’re Ready! Now go conquer your DBQ!