Document-Based Question Scoring Rubric
- Thesis and Argument Development: 2 points possible
Thesis:
____/____ / Presents a thesis that makes a historically defensible claim and responds to all parts of the question. The thesis must consist of one or more sentences located in one place, either in the introduction or the conclusion.
Thesis Development:
____/_____ / Develops and supports a cohesive argument that recognizes and accounts for historical complexity by explicitly illustrating relationships among historical evidence such as contradiction, corroboration, and/or qualification.
- Document Analysis: 2 points possible
Document Number:
____/_____ / Utilizes the content of at least six of the documents to support the stated thesis or a relevant argument. This means not simply mentioning the documents, but using them properly to support a response to the essay prompt.
Expanded Analysis:
____/_____ / Explains the significance of the author’s point of view, purpose, historical context, and/or audience for at least 4 documents.
- Using Evidence Beyond the Documents: 2 points possible
Contextualization:
____/____ / Situates the argument by explaining the broader historical events, developments, or processes immediately relevant to the question. Must be well-developed sentence/s and not just a phrase.
Outside Information:
____/_____ / Provides an example or additional piece of specific evidence beyond those found in the documents to support or qualify the argument. Must relate directly to the question, and not to interpretation of the documents.
- Synthesis: 1 point possible
____/____
Extends the argument by explaining the connections between the argument and ONE of the following:
A development in a different historical period, situation, or geographical area. Must develop the idea in sentences and not a passing reference. Connect the example to your thesis. / OR / A course theme and/or a different historical lens from the essay topic (such as political, economic, social, cultural, or intellectual history).
Non-rubric points:
____/1 point: Essay is factually accurate and lacking in significant errors
____/1 point: Writing is grammatically strong, coherent, and focused
____/1 point: At least 4 documents are used to support the response to the essay prompt, OR at least 2 documents earn extended analysis
Score: _____/ 10 ______/4 SRG Scale
10= 100% 9= 95%8=90% 7=85% 6= 80%
5=75% 4=70%3=65% 2=60% 1= 55%