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How to Write a DBQ. Learning to Write Critically, Academically, and Successfully. DBQ Review. Preliminary Rules for The DB “Q” : First Things First Read the Question Carefully Be Sure to Understand What the Question is REALLY Asking Answer the ACTUAL Question
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How to Write a DBQ Learning to Write Critically, Academically, and Successfully
DBQ Review • Preliminary Rules for The DB “Q”: First Things First • Read the Question Carefully • Be Sure to Understand What the Question is REALLY Asking • Answer the ACTUAL Question • Preliminary Rules for the “D” BQ: Effective Use of Your Resources: • Read the Documents (a thorough “skim” will do) • Evaluate Each Document’s Usefulness (not all documents are created equal) • 2 Sources for Answering: Documents, Your Knowledge of the Subject
Your Main GOAL • “Argue” ONE Main Point!!!—This ONE MP is your Thesis Statement…Do Whatever it Takes to Make it CLEAR • Your MP is your opinion on the subject. Be sure that it fits the question (actually answers it). • Recognize the categories of history that it addresses or questions • Back your opinion up with solid facts • Support your facts with information/ideas/proof from the documents
Getting Started • Brainstorm on paper—write down everything you can think of…make a list • Group your items together—get organized • Form an outline—at least 3 supporting points with at least 2 sub-supporting points • Recognize an opposing point of view but DO NOT discuss it in detail—Make this your first/opening statement…“While some may argue that (opposing viewpoint), it is the opinion of this writer that…”
Essay Structure • You must write an ARGUMENT. • Your argument must contain at least 3 supporting points. • Develop your argument from BOTH • The Documents (with citations) • Your outside knowledge of US History • A well argued point ALWAYS stays focused on the MAIN TOPIC • Opening paragraph must contain • Introduction to the opposing viewpoint • A CLEAR thesis statement • A PREVIEW to the essay (tell the reader what you’re going to say)