Answering Open-Ended Questions for Social Studies Class

1. Do not write in the 1 st person / use any “I” phrases O Ex: I think, I feel, I believe, in my opinion, etc. 2. Do not speak directly to the reader O Do not ask questions / Say “you” 3. Use the proper tense O History = past tense. (was, not is) (were, not are) O Present day = present tense 4. Spelling and grammar count! 5. Do not refer to historical figures by only their first names 6. Begin with a topic sentence that states your point 7. Support your topic sentence with FACTS 8. Stay on topic

O Who should be the number 1 pick in a fantasy football draft? O Which team will win the NBA title this season? O Which recording artist or group should have won the MTV VMA for best artist? O What movie was the best movie released this past summer?

Essays

DBTA recently instituted a mandatory homework policy that states that every student needs to receive at least 20 minutes of reading and writing homework each night. Is this a good idea? Why or why not?

Introductory Paragraph O Begin by introducing the topic by discussing background information and lead into the body of the topic. (Move from general to specific) O Introduction should end with a clear, precise thesis statement that rewords the question, gives your argument, and briefly outlines your points O Example?

Body Paragraphs O Each body paragraph should begin with a clear, concise topic sentence that states your point of emphasis for that paragraph. O Support your claims with factual evidence

Concluding Paragraph O Conclusion should be a brief summary of the main points of the essay by elaborating briefly on your thesis statement (Move from specific to general) O Do not introduce new ideas O Do not discuss contradictions to your points O Do not end with “The End”, thanking the reader, or another type of dramatic signature. Focus on knowledge, not personality.

DOL Given open-ended responses students will identify the topic sentence and list the supporting details