Summary of How to Write a DBQ Essay

Summary of "How to Write a DBQ Essay"

This video provides a comprehensive guide on writing a Document-Based Question (DBQ) essay, particularly in light of changes from the College Board for the spring 2024 testing. The presenter emphasizes the importance of prompt dissection and outlines a structured approach to writing the essay, from understanding the prompt to crafting a conclusion.

Main Ideas and Concepts:

• Prompt Dissection:
  • Understanding the prompt is crucial for success.
  • Example prompt: "Analyze the extent to which COVID-19 impacted America in 2020."
  • Focus on the specific year and the extent of the impact.
• Document Analysis:
  • Read and annotate all seven documents provided.
  • Identify how each document relates to the prompt.
  • Use a CAP (Context, Audience, Purpose) analysis for each document.
  • Group documents into categories for body paragraphs based on common themes.
• Body Paragraph Structure:
  • Organize body paragraphs around three main categories derived from the documents.
  • Include a refuting argument to acknowledge opposing viewpoints.
  • Use two documents per body paragraph, along with outside knowledge to support claims.
• Introduction and Thesis:
  • Craft an introduction similar to that of a long essay, including contextualization and a thesis statement that outlines the main categories.
• Refuting Argument:
  • Acknowledge a counterargument realistically.
  • Use evidence to demonstrate why your argument is stronger.
• Synthesis:
  • If possible, connect the argument to another historical context to show complexity.
• Conclusion:
  • While not mandatory in timed essays, restate the thesis and summarize the main points if time permits.
• Final Tips:
  • Avoid personal pronouns and excessive punctuation.
  • Focus on analysis rather than summarization of documents.
  • Use proper citation for documents (e.g., "Doc 1").
  • Transition ideas effectively without using basic transition words.

Methodology/Instructions:

• Steps to Write a DBQ Essay:
  • Dissect the prompt and understand its requirements.
  • Analyze each document using CAP.
  • Group documents into categories for body paragraphs.
  • Write an introduction with contextualization and a clear thesis.
  • Develop body paragraphs with two documents each, including outside knowledge.
  • Acknowledge and refute opposing arguments.
  • If applicable, make historical connections for synthesis.
  • Conclude by summarizing the thesis and main arguments (if time allows).

Featured Speakers/Sources:

The video is presented by an unnamed instructor who refers to their students as "cherubs." Specific names of documents or sources are not provided, but examples include:

• New York Times graph on flattening the curve.
• Lyrics from a song by Talia Braverman about social distancing.
• A tweet from President Trump minimizing COVID-19's impact.

Notable Quotes

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Category

Educational

Video