EXTENDED WRITTEN RESPONSE TO HISTORICAL EVIDENCE GENERIC STRUCTURE

Your essay contains the following sections: an introduction; a historical background paragraph; body paragraphs; and a conclusion. The number of body paragraphs depends on the length of your essay and the number of points you make. You should spend approximately 1/3 of the time allotted to you for the extended written response writing up your essay plan. Taking the time to plan your essay carefully will free your brain to focus on writing once you begin your essay and will result in better performance.

When planning your essay it is advised that you follow these steps: 1. 2. 3. 4. Brainstorm the topic and break it down to develop a hypothesis; Organise your brainstorming into 2 or 3 supporting points (based on the number of body paragraphs); Write headings on a page for each section of your essay; For each body paragraph write in supporting points, key information, sources you will use as supporting evidence, etc.; 5. Add in any extra details such as linking words, key vocabulary, etc.

INTRODUCTION

Your introduction should contain the following: your position on the topic; your hypothesis; explanation of your hypothesis; a linking sentence to the historiographic paragraph.

HISTORICAL BACKGROUND PARAGRAPH

This paragraph contains the key historical context for the topic the who/what/where/when of the period under investigation. The key historical forces and developments that relate to the topic should also be explained. This paragraph sets the scene for your argument.

BODY PARAGRAPHS

Body paragraphs follow the PEEL structure: topic sentence; explanation; evidence; link to your hypothesis. Your topic sentence must be a point which supports your hypothesis; this holds your essay together and develops your argument. Your explanation of your point is where you argue your position and seek to convince your reader that your point is valid. The evidence you use must be from the sources provided and must support the point in your topic sentence. At the end of your body paragraph, link the paragraph to your hypothesis. By reminding your reader of your hypothesis you help to reinforce and strengthen your argument.

CONCLUSION

In your conclusion remind your reader of your position on the topic and your hypothesis, however use different wording than in your introduction. Briefly revise the key elements of each of your points; avoid repeating your points though as that makes your essay boring. Finally, finish with a profound or unique observation on the significance of the topic and end with a deep statement on how your argument relates to the bigger picture.