FRQ bootcamp

Structured FRQ Practice

• Introduction to Free Response Questions (FRQs)

  • Students are presented with an FRQ to complete.

  • Students can select specific units for their FRQ practice.

  • Example: Argumentative essay from Unit 5.

  • Sample prompt given:

  • "Develop the argument as to whether the rise of independent political expenditures by interest groups and corporations undermines or enhances the democratic process."

  • Timer feature included for practice on time management.

  • Recommended time: 40 minutes for argumentative essays, 20 minutes for other FRQs.

  • Resource features the ability to “score my response” for self-assessment.

  • Encourages students to write multiple FRQs for practice and review.

Evidence and Reasoning in FRQs

• Importance of Evidence and Reasoning

  • Review request for students regarding prior discussions on evidence and thesis statements.

  • Clear understanding of what constitutes adequate evidence in responses is emphasized.

  • Requirement: Provide at least two pieces of specific, accurate evidence in Part B of FRQs.

  • Foundational Documents Requirement: At least one piece of evidence must come from a foundational document listed in the prompt.

    • Example: Familiarity with the First Amendment for evidence related to free speech.

    • Advisement against selecting evidence (like "Brutus No. 1") without sufficient knowledge about it.

  • The second piece can be from another foundational document or a course concept.

  • Recommendation for an additional “spare tire” piece of evidence to bolster arguments.

  • Importance of specificity when citing documents is stressed.

  • Example: Naming the specific document instead of vague references.

Grading Rubric Explanation

• Overview of the rubric for FRQ Part B.

  • Total points available: 3.

  • Zero Points: No accurate evidence or irrelevant evidence provided.

  • One Point: One relevant piece of evidence; must relate to the prompt.

  • Two Points:

    • One piece of specific evidence relevant to the topic.

    • Two pieces of evidence that are relevant.

  • Three Points:

    • Two pieces of specific, relevant evidence; one must be from a foundational document, the other can be from a different foundational document or course concepts.

  • Note on thesis statement importance: A strong thesis is critical for scoring highly.

  • Clarification that one or two points in B do not require scoring from part A for eligibility but three points do.

Structuring Body Paragraphs

• Deep dive into how to structure body paragraphs for FRQ responses.

  • Emphasis on building a strong argument in essays.

  • Key components of body paragraphs:

  • Topic Sentence:

    • State the main claim and rationale.

    • Template suggested for constructing topic sentences: Transition word + subject/idea from thesis + supporting information.

  • Evidence: Present specific evidence relevant to the topic.

  • Reasoning: Connect evidence back to the claim/thesis.

    • Usage of the word "because" to facilitate this connection.

  • Additional Body Paragraphs: Repeat structure for additional reasons and evidence.

  • Instructions for linking sentences that allow for seamless transitions between body paragraphs.

Practical Activity and Encouragement

• Students will practice writing body paragraphs using learned strategies.

• Suggest students to avoid familiar examples as they practice today.

• Reference to potential topics for the practice.

  • Reminders of topics chosen from previous discussions:

  • Direct vs. representative democracy, electoral college, national security vs. liberties.

• Advice against reliance on AI or outside sources for exam preparation.

• Closing remarks encouraging students to ask questions or express concerns.