1. THE DBQ: Document-Based Question
Objective: To understand the process of how to write a DBQ

2. Step 1: Read Historical Context and Task
Read the Historical Context- this provides you with insight to the historical setting and time period.
Example: Imperialism
Historical Context:
Imperialism has been interpreted from a variety of viewpoints. The documents below express various viewpoints about the positive and negative effects of European imperialism.
Task:
Evaluate both the positive and negative effects of imperialism

3. Step 2- Examine the Documents
FIRST- Consider the Source of the document
Status, Time Period, Bias, Point of View (POV)
For Example- is the source from the African peoples’ vs. the colonizers POV
Is the source Bias? (someone who leans a certain way)
Was it before a certain time period, major turning point in history?

4. Step 3- Group the Documents
Positive Negative, by time period, by social status, etc
Think of the Documents as a puzzle you have to piece together
make a chart
Positive Effects
Negative Effects
Doc. 1
Doc. 2
Doc. 4
Doc. 3
Doc. 5
Doc. 6

5. Step 4- Decide What Documents to Use
Rule of Thumb:
Use one more than half the documents in your essay
If you are given 6 documents, you have to use_______?
You can use all or more than the more than half if you want

6. Step 5- Write the Essay using the Documents as Supporting Evidence
Follow same essay structure
Intro- General statement, transition, and Thesis (Although Statement)
Organize your body paragraphs based on thematic ideas discussed in the documents that answer the task
Be Sure to: use the documents and include OUTSIDE INFORMATION as well
Cite your Document after you use it (Doc. 1).
Or refer to __________ (author) of Document 1 states…

7. Point will be taken off if…
In a formal essay, use personal pronouns- I, me, you, your, we, etc point every time
No thesis/ Although statement – 1 point off
Illegible = 0
Failure to indent
Misinterprets documents

8. Your Question: Historical Context:
The African continent has been shaped by various people, trade routes, and civilizations throughout world history. The early civilizations of North Africa reveal that there were advanced societies in Africa before European colonization, Also, the various sub-Saharan West African trading kingdoms are evidence of these advanced societies. Africa also had its own beliefs in terms of religions and traditions. Traditional beliefs along with the influence of Christianity and Islam helped shape the region we call Africa today. Along with the Europeans in Africa came slavery, brutality and exploitation of resources and humans. The effects of European rule would forever change the face of the African continent.
Task:
In a well-written essay, using the documents, answer the encompassing question:
How has Africa changed over time throughout world history?