How to
Write a DBQ
Social Studies
What is a DBQ?
• DBQ stands for document based question
• One will write an essay forming an argument
based on the provided documents
• One must also include outside information that
he/she learned in class to support these claims
What type of documents
can be included?
Documents can come from
a variety of sources
•
including:
•
•
•
•
Charts, graphs, and maps
Newspaper articles/editorials
Speeches
Letters
•
•
•
•
Diaries
Laws
Treaties
Executive orders
Political cartoons
How many documents
must be included?
The directions will state the minimum number of documents
that must be included. In Example…
“Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an
introduction, several paragraphs, and a conclusion. Use
evidence from at least five (5) documents in your essay.
Support your response with relevant facts, examples, and
details. Include additional outside information.”
How to Cite Documents
When writing and referencing information included in a
document, one must cite the document at the end of that
specific sentence (Doc. A).
When including a quote included in a document, one must
cite the document, such as when Mr. Marinaccio said,
“Please be on time to class” (Doc. B).
What is the historical
context?
The historical context
provides background
information about the time
period the DBQ covers.
Historical Context
Examples:
“In the late 18th century and early 19th century, the United States
underwent significant political development. Part of this growth as a new
country involved foreign policy. Many of the first political leaders decided
that neutrality would best help America succeed. ”
“Prior to 1865, a major issue that faced the United States was the
institution of slavery. Some individuals and groups were against slavery,
and they promoted abolition in a variety of ways. During the same time,
the government attempted to deal with the issue of slavery in other ways.”
Understanding the Task
The task informs the writer what he/she must argue. It is important to know key
terms from blooms taxonomy (question words) such as:
• Explain
• Discuss
• Describe
• Analyze
• Defend
Essay Format
If the task requires two arguments, it may be best to include two
body paragraphs.
• Introductory paragraph
• Body 1 (first argument topic)
• Body 2 (second argument topic)
• Concluding paragraph
Introductory Paragraph
Must be at least 5 sentences
Include:
• Background information (restate historical context)
• Definitions of any important terms associated with the topic
• Thesis statement
• One-two sentences answering the essay task
Body Paragraphs
Must be at least 5 sentences
Include:
• Topic sentence
• Argument supported by documents and outside information
• Closing sentence
Conclusion
Must be at least 5 sentences
Include:
• Restate thesis
• Summarize examples
• Closing sentence
Good Luck!