World War II Essay Test
Handed Out March 26
On April 10th, you will complete an essay exam on a topic from World War II. You will be allowed to pick one of the
questions from below and elaborate on that topic. For this test, you will need to formulate 5 paragraphs. Please
construct your essay using the following format.
1st Paragraph: Introduction
This paragraph needs to introduce your topic. Please DO NOT begin your essay by restating the question. Think of ways
to creatively start your essay. In this 1st paragraph, you should also highlight your thesis statement. A thesis statement
is the MAIN IDEA of your essay. To construct a thesis statement, look for three ways to support your answer. Then,
create a thesis statement around these three supporting themes.
2nd, 3rd, & 4th Paragraph: The Body of Support
Use these paragraphs to elaborate on your knowledge and support your thesis statement. Each paragraph is important
and allows each sentence to argue your point on the position. For the most part, there are no incorrect answers.
However, you need to know what you are discussing and this is your platform to show what you know. Important dates,
locations, and people will help to add to your points as you construct the body of your essay.
5th Paragraph: The Conclusion and Summation of Your Argument:
The overall goal of this paragraph is to restate your position and add a final thought on your topic. Use evidence from
the previous paragraphs to conclude your argument. Try to hammer home your points. Look for ways to close by using
a quote or some other interesting form.
Questions to Choose From
1.
Consider the role of technology during World War II. Did it fundamentally affect the outcome of the war? If so, how? If not, why
2.
not?
Explain Germany’s mistakes in Russia and the ways in which they affected the outcome of the war.
3.
Discuss the issues surrounding the United States’ decision to use atomic bombs against Japan. What motives were behind
this action, and what arguments have been made against it?
4.
Explain how the situation in Europe immediately following the fall of Germany led directly to the Cold War. In your opinion,
should the Western Allies have acted to oppose Soviet domination of Eastern Europe?
5. In your opinion, what were three mistakes made by Hitler during the war that led to the defeat of Germany?
Elaborate and explain.
Remember, you may only choose one question from above to write on. Get planning on how you will answer the
question in detail.
Formatting
*Each essay paragraph must be a minimum of three sentences and a maximum of six sentences.
*You may bring notes to class to construct your essay. You MAY NOT conduct research on April 10.
* Your essay will be typed using Microsoft Word April 10th. You will have 40 minutes to complete the essay.
*Additional class time will be provided if necessary but no more than 60 minutes will be allotted.