STRUCTURING YOUR HISTORY EXTENSION RESPONSE
NB: the structure becomes more fluid – this is a guide thus far
1. Introduction- this is not a huge intro. Normal size. Please ensure there are no shopping
lists. This will probably be the last thing you write.
Context :
2. The basics- That is what is your topic considering, give me some context. What is the
realm of history that you are focusing on? What are your points for consideration. This is
your opportunity to provide definitions of things as you see them (remember this is like in
ancient when we define what we mean by relationships)
3. The thesis – why are you doing this? What are you trying to prove? How are you going to
prove it? Have you got something to prove? Are you trying to find something out?
4. The evidence and historical facts– what evidence are you using? What are the nonhistorian based things you are looking for? What bits of history are you using to make your
point.
5. The VIPS – which historians are proving your point? Who are you talking to me about.
Label them so they fit with a historical school of thought – this needs to be stuff like; postmodern, annalistic, narrative etc
The Essay:
6. Para 1
7. Para 2
8. Para 3
9. Para 4
The Conclusion:
10. Conclusion – review, refocus, remind us of the first four paragraphs.
The structure:
Each paragraph should have the following:
The thesis – What is your argument? How can you remind me of the question?
The facts – What facts have emerged from your research into the way the historians discuss
your topic?
What do you think? – What are your thoughts around this, does this agree with your
research.
What do the historians say – this should be one of the big 3 or 4 authors or sources you
have selected. What do they say in relation to the facts you have found? Do they agree or
disagree?
What do you think about what they say? – this is where you bring in some of those other
authors you are familiar with. Tell me what you think with the help of the other authors.
Bring your gang into it here.
Linking sentence- remind me of how all of this answers the question. Tie this back in neatly
with the question.