APUSH LEQ Preparation

Contextualization

  • Provides 2-3 specific factual information (SFI) that establishes historical context relevant to the prompt.
  • Context should cover events or processes from 25 to 100 years before or after the topic of the prompt.
  • A strong contextualization connects the topic to broader historical events, not just general phrases.

Thesis/Claim

  • The thesis is the last sentence of your introduction.
  • Must respond directly to the prompt with a historically defensible claim that establishes a line of reasoning.
  • It should be precise, focused, and presented in a clear manner, avoiding mere rephrasing of the prompt.

Body Paragraphs

  • Body paragraphs must provide reasons that support the thesis.

Evidence & Support for Argument

  • To earn points, you must:
    • Provide at least two specific examples of relevant historical evidence.
    • Support your argument with at least two pieces of evidence that connect back to the thesis.
    • It is beneficial to include extra examples if possible.

Analysis and Reasoning

  • To build a strong argument, you need to:
    • Utilize historical reasoning such as comparison, causation, or change over time (CCOT) to frame your argument.
    • Demonstrate a complex understanding of the historical developments discussed in the prompt by:
    • Exploring nuances within different themes or perspectives.
    • Analyzing both similarities and differences, changes, or continuities.
    • Use effective evidence to showcase a comprehensive understanding of the topic.

Sophisticated Argumentation

  • To demonstrate sophistication:
    • Examine multiple perspectives and their connections.
    • Explain how 4 pieces of relevant evidence contribute to a nuanced argument.
    • Acknowledge different historical interpretations and integrate them into your analysis.

Scoring Rubric Overview

  • This grading rubric includes guidelines developed by the College Board as of September 2023.
  • Total points available for this exercise is up to 6, broken down into:
    • 4 points for SFI.
    • 2 points for demonstrating complex understanding and effective use of evidence.