US History Writing Prompt vocab

List – Write an itemized series of concise statements (e.g., concepts, events, laws) without explanation.

Identify – Write an itemized series of concise statements (e.g., concepts, events, laws) without explanation.

Define – state the meaning of a term/concept and use examples of what it is and, perhaps, what it is not. 

Describe – Give a detailed account.  Make a picture with words.  Include characteristics qualities, and parts.

Summarize – Paraphrase information (i.e., put it in your own words) using new examples

Analyze – Break into its component parts and discuss or examine each part.

Explain – Make an idea/concept/process/relationship clear.  Show the logical relationship between components               of the question.  Provide reasons for an event or series of events.  Should take a minimum of 3                  sentences.

Compare – Show the similarities and sometimes the differences between two or more things.

Support/refute – Provide evidence which proves (supports) or disproves (refutes) a statement or quotation.                                 Requires a claim and supporting evidence.

Justify – To show act, claim, statement to be right or correct.

Evaluate – Make a judgment on a problem, condition, and/or quotation.  Provide data on both sides.  Pick one  side and justify your position with data, expert testimony, and evidence.

Thesis/Claim– The argument the author is attempting to make to persuade the reader.

Counter-claim – An opposing argument that attempts to refute the claim. 

Rebuttal – How the author attempts to weaken/disprove evidence in the counter-claim.