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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. How to write a great DBQ. 1. Analyze the Documents. 2. Group the Documents. 5. Write an awesome DBQ!.
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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.
How to write a great DBQ 1. Analyze the Documents 2. Group the Documents 5. Write an awesome DBQ! 3. Write an amazing thesis 4. Organize the Essay
1. Analyzing the Documents • Source: Where from? • Is that significant? • What point of view or possible bias? • 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. • Use a majority of the documents to get full credit for the essay. (1/2 plus 1) Docs 2, 13 Docs 1, 3, 7 Docs 4, 10, 11
Point 1 THESIS Point 2 Point 3 Write an AWESOME Thesis • Great essays have a clear thesis statement • Answers the question • Takes a position • Preview main points • “road map” of the essay (your buckets!) • Think of it like a “chicken-foot”
Using the “Chicken Foot” • Thesis is the leg • Each group (main point) will branch out with supporting ideas. (toes) Reason 1 Carnegie was a hero (or was not, or a mixture) because… Reason 2 Reason 3
4. Organize the DBQ • Introductory Paragraph • Thesis Statement! • Body Paragraph • Docs __, __, and __ • Body Paragraph • Docs __, __, and __ • Body Paragraph • Docs __, __, and __ • Conclusion
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 most of the documents given [60%]. • Be sure to indicate Point-of-view/ bias. • Bring in supportive outside information • Why were these documents selected?
Conclusion • Start with a “concluding phrase.” • Restate your thesis statement a bit differently. • Put your essay answer in a larger historical perspective.
You’re Ready! Now go conquer your DBQ!