A Document-Based Question (DBQ) is a type of essay question that is commonly used in history and social studies assessments, particularly in Advanced Placement (AP) exams. It requires students to analyze and interpret a set of historical documents or sources to answer a specific question or prompt. The goal of a DBQ is to test a student's ability to think critically and historically, using evidence from the documents to support their argument or thesis.
Components of a DBQ
A typical DBQ consists of several key components:
- Question or Prompt: A clear and concise question or prompt that sets the tone for the essay and guides the student’s analysis.
- Documents: A set of 5-7 historical documents or sources that are relevant to the question or prompt. These documents may include primary sources, such as letters, speeches, or diary entries, as well as secondary sources, such as historians’ accounts or scholarly articles.
- Context: Background information or context that helps students understand the historical setting and significance of the documents.
- Rubric: A scoring guide that outlines the criteria for evaluating student responses, including content, analysis, and writing skills.
Types of DBQs
There are several types of DBQs, including:
- Single-Question DBQ: Students answer a single question or prompt using evidence from the documents.
- Comparative DBQ: Students compare and contrast two or more historical events, periods, or themes using evidence from the documents.
- Thematic DBQ**: Students analyze a specific theme or topic across multiple historical periods or events using evidence from the documents.
| DBQ Component | Description |
|---|---|
| Question or Prompt | A clear and concise question or prompt that sets the tone for the essay. |
| Documents | A set of 5-7 historical documents or sources that are relevant to the question or prompt. |
| Context | Background information or context that helps students understand the historical setting and significance of the documents. |
Key Points
- A DBQ requires students to analyze and interpret historical documents to answer a specific question or prompt.
- The question or prompt sets the tone for the essay and guides the student's analysis.
- Students should use evidence from the documents to support their argument or thesis.
- Context is essential in understanding the historical setting and significance of the documents.
- A clear thesis statement is crucial in addressing the question and guiding the student's analysis.
Grading a DBQ
Grading a DBQ involves evaluating student responses based on several criteria, including:
- Thesis Statement: The clarity and effectiveness of the student’s thesis statement in addressing the question or prompt.
- Analysis: The depth and quality of the student’s analysis of the documents and historical context.
- Evidence: The use of evidence from the documents to support the student’s argument or thesis.
- Writing Skills: The clarity, organization, and coherence of the student’s writing.
Best Practices for Teaching DBQs
To effectively teach DBQs, instructors should:
- Model DBQ Analysis: Provide students with examples of how to analyze documents and develop a thesis statement.
- Practice DBQ Writing: Offer students opportunities to practice writing DBQ essays and receive feedback.
- Emphasize Context: Help students understand the historical context and significance of the documents.
- Encourage Critical Thinking: Encourage students to think critically and historically, using evidence from the documents to support their argument.
What is the purpose of a DBQ?
+The purpose of a DBQ is to test a student’s ability to think critically and historically, using evidence from the documents to support their argument or thesis.
How do I approach a DBQ?
+To approach a DBQ, read the question or prompt carefully, analyze the documents, and develop a clear thesis statement that addresses the question. Use evidence from the documents to support your argument and consider the historical context.
What are the key components of a DBQ?
+The key components of a DBQ include the question or prompt, documents, context, and rubric.
