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. “Read” (Analyze) the Documents 2. Group the Documents 5. Write an awesome DBQ! 3. Write an amazing thesis 4. Organize the Essay

4. 1. Analyzing the Documents • Not about paraphrasing • Show that you know what the doc means by using it to answer the question. • Analyze for POV: SOAPSTone or APPARTS: • Who? When? Where? Why? For whom? What is the author’s POV? Is it reliable or not? • Important facts? • Inferences? • Main idea? • How does this document answer the question? [Which bucket does it fit into?]

5. 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 all of the documents!!!!! Docs 2, 13 Docs 1, 3, 7 Docs 4, 10, 11

6. Point 1 THESIS Point 2 Point 3 Write an AWESOME Thesis • Great essays have a clear thesis statement • Answers the question- (indicates era or time period) • 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) #1: conversion The Islamic empire spread through conversion, cultural interaction, and the skill of Arab leaders. #2: cultural interaction #3: skill of Arab leaders

8. 4. Organize the DBQ • Introductory Paragraph • Thesis Statement! • Body Paragraph • Docs __, __, and __ • At least one POV • Body Paragraph • Docs __, __, and __ • At least one POV • Body Paragraph • Docs __, __, and __ • At least one POV

9. Are We Finished? • No!! • Include the “missing voice” • What “voice” (POV) is not represented in the documents? • Whose “voice” would help you answer the question? • Identify a document; bill of sale, ship manifest, diary entry, census report, bank deposits, itemized statement, etc. • Think about: religion, gender, occupation, social status, time, etc • Why do you want this POV? Would it confirm or refute your thesis?

10. Where should you include the “Missing Voice”? • Anywhere • As soon as possible • In the thesis • At the end of a body paragraph • At the end in its own paragraph • Even in the conclusion is fine • Just don’t forget to include it!!!

11. 5. Write your Essay! • Outline provides structure • Keep the body paragraphs in the order of your thesis statement • Create an intro and conclusion!

12. 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!

13. 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 all of the documents given. • Complete at least one POV analysis-is the source reliable or not? Why? • Bring in supportive outside information. • “Missing Voice”

14. Conclusion • Not necessary but if you do… • Start with a “concluding phrase.” • Restate your thesis statement a bit differently. • Put your essay answer in a larger historical perspective-global perspective.

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