self-doubt, do not believe a word of it. The DBQ or Document Based Question is nothing to be feared or dreaded. By following the guidelines setout over the next few days and with a little hard work you will be able to successfully write a DBQ. What is a DBQ? (Document Based Question or Data Based Question)
- Background information or key terms used should be included in the opening. This information will provide some historical context and clarify the purpose of the paper.
- DO NOT USE DOCUMENT REFERENCES IN THE OPENING.
- The body of the paper will consist of a number of paragraphs each designed to present evidence in support of the thesis.
- The idea is to use the evidence to construct a logical argument so the reader will agree with your thesis.
- Each paragraph should be related to a single point.
- The closing ties your paper together by rephrasing the thesis statement and recapping or summarizing the evidence.
Tips for Writing the DBQ 1. Read the question that must be answer carefully. 2. Carefully read all the documents and think about the question to be answered.
Note or highlight useful and important information in the documents as each is read. 3. Review the evidence, think about the information in the documents and decide on an answer to the question. 4. Make a list of facts from the documents that support the position taken.
It is not necessary to use all the documents but be careful not to leave out important evidence. 5. Create a thesis statement. (Answer the question)
Remember to KEEP IT SIMPLE! 6. Gather the evidence that was listed earlier in step 4.
a. Group like information together to support the thesis but be sure to keep track of the source for each piece of evidence.
b. Arrange the information from the strongest point to the weakest point. 7. Create an opening paragraph. It must contain a thesis statement and clearly setout the purpose of the paper. In addition it should identify the main points of the argument.
DO NOT USE DOCUMENT REFERENCES. 8. Develop separate paragraphs to deal with each of the main points.