Expository Essay Writing Tips to Success for the Provincial Exam

The Questions: What are they Asking? Explain. Give reasons for something. Support. Give points in favour of something.  You are given the thesis.  You must argue in favour of it. Analyze. Consider as many sides of the problem as possible. Compare. Give similarities.  Generally this will also involve indicating differences. Contrast. This always means to indicate differences. To What Extent? The question is telling you that there are at least two positions that are possible. You should look at the strengths of each and draw a conclusion as to which position is strongest. Evaluate. Again, there are at least two possible positions.  Weigh them and draw a conclusion.  This is the same as “To What Extent?”  Assess. This requires that you estimate a value of something.  Judge and use facts, evidence and details to support your judgment.  Discuss. Present a variety of points of views on a particular topic. Do not limit yourself to one point of view only.  Describe. Present detailed information about an event, situation, or topic.

Introduction Must explain in general what you are writing about Must have a Thesis A thesis is one sentence that explains to the reader what it is that you will be trying to prove in your essay. The thesis is the most important part of your essay, for it keeps the entire essay focused. In this sense, everything that you write should somehow be linked to your thesis. If not, don’t waste your time writing it!

Body Paragraphs Generally you have three to five paragraphs Each paragraph focuses on one specific argument, which you are using to prove your thesis. Try and follow this format: List one argument, or idea that helps you prove your thesis An explanation of your argument or idea, using examples Link this argument, or idea, to your Thesis Repeat this format throughout your body paragraphs.

Transitions In an expository History essay, unlike an English essay, you do not have to link your paragraphs to one another. It is more important to link your paragraphs to your Thesis!!!

Conclusion A good conclusion is not just a summary of your main points. A good conclusion in a History essay explains what you have learned from this essay. You should try to offer something new; something that you have not yet discussed.

Other Writing Tips Read the questions very carefully. Look at the command words. Make sure you answer all parts of the question. Be aware of the time you have for each question and ensure you answer both. Organize your answer before you write. Write clearly and ensure that you have a good thesis statement. Use proper essay format, with an introduction, body and conclusion. Proofread and edit neatly and carefully – if you have time at the end of the test.

Marking Criteria Your essays are marked using a 6 point holistic scale Like the Cross-Grade in English There is much less emphasis on grammar, however your thoughts must be coherent and connected to your thesis

Provincial Exam Essay Questions The Great Depression Provincial Exam Essay Questions

Possible Question #1 “During the Great Depression, political leaders failed the people of Canada as they first allowed the country to slip into an economic depression, and then, were unable to help the people of Canada during the depression, and unable to get Canada out of the depression.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

Possible Question #2 Discuss how Canada became autonomous from Britain during the 1920’s and 1930’s.

Possible Question #3 “The Great Depression made a huge social and political impact on Canada.” To what extent do you agree with this statement?

Possible Question #4 Analyze the strategies and steps taken by the government during the Great Depression.