Do not merely list your documents or summarize them individually in the order in which they
appear in the text.
Analyze point of view in at least two documents. Begin this task by looking at the author, the
author’s background, the date on which the document was written, and any other information
provided in the attribution, or the introductory information given before the document. In your
essay, discuss how the author’s background formed his or her point of view.
- Identify one type of additional document or source that would be useful in analyzing the essay
prompt. Ask yourself, “Whose voice or opinion is missing?” Explain why the document or source
is needed.
If you perform all the above tasks satisfactorily, you will receive a total of seven points on the
document-based question. You are then eligible to earn one or two additional points by writing an
essay that displays one or more quality points such as:
• an exceptionally clear, analytical thesis
• exceptionally strong analysis of the documents
• analysis of point of view in most of the documents
• the inclusion of appropriate additional historical evidence or more than one additional document
The following are some frequently asked questions regarding the document-based question.
How do I begin answering the question? Read the question carefully so that you know what the
question is asking you to do. A good idea is to underline the task word (such as analyze, compare,
evaluate), the topic, and the time parameters (dates, centuries, or periods) contained in the essay
prompt.
- What is the next step? Group your documents in several useful categories.
- How do I cite the documents? A manner of citation that is especially useful for the reader who
scores your essay is to include the number of the document in parentheses after making a
reference to it. For example: (Document 2). You also may choose to mention the name of the
author or quote or paraphrase from the document to identify it. - Where do I place the analysis of bias or point of view? This analysis may be placed anywhere
in the essay. It is most effective, however, if discussed in the same paragraph in which the
document is analyzed. - Where do I mention the need for an additional document? The discussion of the additional
document may be included anywhere in the essay. - Will I lose points for incorrect spelling or grammar? No. Each essay begins with a score of “0.”
As each task required by the question is accomplished, the reader adds a point to the score. Points
are never deducted. Because spelling and grammar are not included in the tasks required to
complete the essay, incorrect usage will not result in denial of a point.