dbq exam info

DBQ Overview

Document-Based Question, one essay on AP World/US History exam, worth 25% of score. Topics from 1450-2001

DBQ Score

Up to 7 points for the DBQ essay.

Exam Time

60 minutes on exam, 15 to plan, 45 to write.

Class Time

50 minutes in class, graded with time limitations in mind.

Rubric Change

2020 rubric differs from prior World History, easier evidence points.

Note Taking

Optional, presentation uploaded to teacher’s website for review.

Thesis Point

1 point for a clear, arguable claim addressing all prompt parts.

Thesis Structure

Include 2-3 reasons outlining body paragraphs.

Thesis Example

Articles of Confederation ineffective due to reasons A, B, C.

Thesis Placement

One or more sentences in introduction or conclusion.

Thesis Requirement

Must respond to prompt, not restate, per College Board.

Contextualization Point

1 point for broader historical context in introduction.

Context Detail

Several sentences, not a phrase, before or after thesis.

Context Flexibility

Can cover events before, during, or after prompt’s timeframe.

Context Difference

Unlike World History, can discuss pre/post-timeframe events.

Evidence Points

2 points, 1 for describing 3 documents, 1 for using 6 to support argument.

Describe Documents

Accurately paraphrase, don’t quote, at least 3 for 1 point.

Support Argument

Use 6 documents to prove thesis for second evidence point.

Outside Evidence Point

1 point for one specific evidence piece beyond documents.

Outside Evidence Rule

Cannot be referenced in documents, distinct from context.

Outside Evidence Tip

Use separate paragraph, include multiple pieces for safety.

HIPP Analysis Point

1 point for explaining HIPP for 3 documents’ relevance to argument.

HIPP Elements

Historical situation, Intended audience, Point of view, Purpose.

HIPP Requirement

Explain how/why, not just identify, for each of 3 documents.

HIPP Tip

Analyze 4-5 documents in case of inaccuracies.

Point of View Warning

Easiest to misinterpret, explain author’s background.

CORNPEG Mnemonic

Class, Occupation, Race, Nationality, Political affiliation, Ethnicity, Gender.

Complexity Point

1 point for nuanced understanding modifying argument.

Complexity Methods

Analyze variables, both sides, cross-period connections, or alternative views.

Complexity Requirement

Must be part of argument, not just a phrase.

Complexity Tip

Awarded for consistent argument, avoid document listing.