UPDATE: 20min ORAL HG EXAM ANTICIPATED FOR WEEK 13-17 MAY 2024 followed by the 4hr WRITTEN EXAM 8h-12h Wednesday 29 May 2024.
B.F.I. American Section History and Geography essays must follow a three part structure:
INTRODUCTION (with thesis statement)
DEVELOPMENT
CONCLUSION
Be aware and never forget that HG essays are not “étude de document style” exercises. It is vital to have an analytical thesis statement which drives your essay. In addition, American Section essay paragraphs are shorter compared to what is expected in French HG essays.
How much are you expected to write in the exams?
Word count minimum objectives:
DBQ essays = 750 words + (four pages or more)
Regular essays = 1000 words + (upwards of six pages)
Introduction
- Establish context (time, place, key terms and actors), and show understanding of instructions such as ‘To what extent’, ‘Analyse’, ‘Explain’, ‘Evaluate’ etc.
- For Data Based Questions, it is not required to mention the documents in the introduction.
- End with a clear and arguable thesis statement: aim for one sentence which answers the questions and directs your argument through an analytical angle.
Development/Body
- This is where the line of analysis / argument identified in the thesis statement is developed making use of supporting evidence.
- It is divided into short paragraphs.
- The TEEC method can help you if you’re struggling:
Topic Sentence = what the paragraph will prove. Use analytical expressions such as because, as a result of, or due to. (one sentence).Explanation Sentences = Explain the point made by the topic sentence, using specific key terms and dates. (Around three sentences). Evidence Sentences = Prove your argument with evidence: using direct or indirect quotes and/ or specific examples of phenomena. **Always use key terms and dates!** Clincher = Summarize/restate your point. This is a good place to transition to the next paragraph’s idea. (One sentence).
Conclusion
- The Conclusion of the essay summarizes the evidence and restates your argument. You can do that by reformulating your topic sentences. Do not introduce new information in the conclusion. Do not open up to a new issue. Always stay relevant to your argument. It should have a “drop the mic” ending.
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Here is the downloadable version of the REVISION BOOKLET for oral and written exams.
Use it in parallel with the resources on the blog and PRISONERS OF GEOGRAPHY plus THE WORLD SINCE 1945.
If in doubt just digest these two books for their knowledge and analytical style.
MARCH DBQ mock test: