Conquering the DBQ Essay AP U.S. History

Step 0 Identify the time period (navigation point)

Step 1: Take Inventory List all relevant information that comes to mind about the topic at hand Do not spend a lot of time on this. No more than 1-2 minutes..  Personalities/Major Events/Significant Dates/Historians’ Titles good areas of focus

Step 2: The Prompt Read the Question What the author is asking from the student BREAK DOWN THE QUESTION INTO PARTS!

STEP 3: The Outline Write down your basic plan of attack as you begin your investigation. 15 minute recommended reading period. How to slow down?   A Basic Outline Introduction + Thesis Setting the Scene (StS) Example A Example B Example C Concession Statement Conclusion

Step 4: Intro + Thesis Do not restate questions/prompts 1-2 sentences of background information + Thesis Thesis What the essay is all about Thesis Statement, Not Thesis Sentence

Step 5: Setting the Stage Write about the time period Use the Period breakdowns as bookends Write about events and how they are influenced by different time periods 4-6 sentences Benefits: Place question in context, establish parameters, and demonstrates credibility

Steps 6-8: Presenting Your Case Evidence: Shoot for three topics with three pieces of evidence for each topic Look for similarities and differences Guidelines Note the prompts Develop essay in linear (sequential) fashion Name sources Use a parathetical citation

Steps 6-8: Presenting Your Case Guidelines Use all or all but one of the documents Names/Major Events Cultural references Naming different historians Return to the Inventory if stuck Remember, this is a first draft! Do not take controversial stands

Step 9: Rebuttal/Concession Statement Explain the fundamental argument of the opposing position…….THEN REFUTE IT!!! Shows you understand point from different perspectives

Step 10: Conclusion Tell them what you said and, as always, try to extend your thesis You should be employing synthesis throughout the essay, but the conclusion can also offer an opportunity to do this.