A FORMULA for Writing a DBQ

Summary

The video script humorously compares writing a successful DBQ essay to achieving victory in the game Fortnite, emphasizing there's no one-size-fits-all approach. It suggests starting with context and a thesis, then structuring body paragraphs around 'topic sentence, evidence, analysis'. The script recommends using all documents for evidence and incorporating outside sources for a high score, offering a formula for those who prefer structure over freeform writing.

Takeaways

• 📚 There's no one-size-fits-all formula for writing a DBQ, but a structured approach can help maximize points.
• 🎮 The speaker humorously compares the challenge of getting a Victory Crown in Fortnite to scoring high on a DBQ.
• 👨‍🦲 Despite being 43 and bald, the speaker admits to enjoying Fortnite, using it as a metaphor for the DBQ writing process.
• ❓ Common questions about DBQ structure, like paragraph count and need for a conclusion, are addressed with the answer that there's no set format required.
• 📝 The script suggests starting with a thesis that includes categories to structure the body paragraphs of the essay.
• 📈 The formula for a DBQ paragraph is outlined as: Topic Sentence, Evidence, Analysis.
• 📜 For evidence, use documents provided in the DBQ, described in your own words, not direct quotes.
• 🔍 Analysis involves showing how the evidence supports the topic sentence and ties back to the thesis.
• 💯 To score full points, include at least four documents in your analysis, aiming for the complexity point.
• 🔗 Source at least two documents and add evidence beyond the documents to enhance the argument.
• 🏆 Following the provided formula can lead to a high score, akin to earning a Victory Crown in Fortnite.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the video transcript?

The main topic of the video transcript is the strategy for writing a Document-Based Question (DBQ) that can score maximum points, using a formulaic approach similar to playing the video game Fortnite.

Why does the speaker compare writing a DBQ to playing Fortnite?

The speaker compares writing a DBQ to playing Fortnite to illustrate that, just like achieving a 'Victory Crown' in the game, there is no single way to get maximum points on a DBQ; different strategies can be employed based on individual preference.

What is the speaker's stance on the necessity of a conclusion paragraph in a DBQ?

The speaker clarifies that there is no requirement for a conclusion paragraph in a DBQ on the national exam, emphasizing that there is no set format for these essays.

What is the recommended structure for the first paragraph of a DBQ according to the speaker?

The speaker recommends starting the first paragraph with two or three sentences of contextualization containing specific historical information, followed by a thesis statement that is historically defensible and outlines the argument and categories for the essay.

How many body paragraphs should a DBQ have according to the categories in the thesis?

The number of body paragraphs in a DBQ should correspond to the number of categories established in the thesis. For example, if there are three categories, there should be three body paragraphs.

What is the formula for writing a body paragraph in a DBQ as suggested by the speaker?

The formula for writing a body paragraph in a DBQ suggested by the speaker is: Topic Sentence, Evidence, Analysis. This is similar to the SQA (Source, Question, Answer) format but with an emphasis on analysis to support the thesis.

What is the purpose of introducing evidence with phrases like 'Document 4 says'?

The purpose of introducing evidence with phrases like 'Document 4 says' is to ensure that the writer is clearly using the documents as evidence, especially helpful for those who may be struggling with incorporating sources into their essays.

How many documents should be included in the analysis to aim for full points in a DBQ?

To aim for full points in a DBQ, the speaker suggests including at least four documents in the analysis, or all seven documents if aiming for the complexity point.

What does the speaker mean by 'Source at least two documents' in the context of a DBQ?

The speaker means that within the body paragraphs, the writer should provide context or additional information about at least two documents by mentioning the events' larger context or the audience of the documents, and then explaining how this information supports the argument.

What additional evidence beyond the documents is required in a DBQ, and how should it be incorporated?

In a DBQ, the writer should include specific historical evidence that is not mentioned in the documents, which comes from their own knowledge. This should be incorporated in the same manner as the documents, with a clear introduction, explanation, and analysis showing how it supports the argument.

What is the speaker's final advice on achieving a high score in a DBQ?

The speaker's final advice is to follow the provided formula, use all seven documents to support the argument or source four documents, and ensure that the essay is structured and analyzed to prove the thesis, which will lead to a high score in a DBQ.