- The thesis statement should be the last sentence of the introduction paragraph.
- The thesis statement is never a question, and should be specific in answering the essay task, addressing how, why, etc. To create a thesis, it is helpful to use key words from the question + your position on the topic. The reasons for your position should follow in each body paragraph.
- The introduction and conclusion paragraphs should be 3-5 sentences in length.
- The “Historical Context” can be used as a guide/framework in the instruction paragraph. It must not be copied from the historical context. It may be paraphrased, but requires additional information for support.
- Each body paragraph must begin with a topic sentence. This is like a “mini – thesis” and should contain key words from the question + one reason or idea which was mentioned in the thesis statement.
- Never use “I,” “in my essay,” “we,” “Did you ever wonder?” etc. Also avoid making generalization using terms such as: never, always no one, everyone, etc.
- In DBQ essays, you must refer specifically to the documents. Reference to documents must be boxed, underlined, and/or in parenthesis: (Evidence from Document #1 indicates…)
- In DBQ essays, each document used must have specific outside information as reinforcement. This outside information must pertain to the essay task.
- Remember that a Social Studies essay is different from an English essay.