Essay answer
What makes a good essay answer
- same as a regular essay:
- thesis stated clearly in the first paragraph
- several paragraphs in which you provide evidence for your thesis
- conclusion tying everything together
Approach
- take time to plan your answer; make sure you read the questions closely and you understand what is being asked.
- begin by stating your thesis – do not waste time restating the question; make sure your thesis is not a simple statement of fact but rather an answer to a why question. In the exam from last term, for example, saying that Jews fared better under Islam was correct but you only got full marks if you made it clear why
- Cite the evidence – stronger answers use specific points to make their case and shows an understanding of historical context. Using primary sources add particular weight to any historical essay so don’t leave out the material covered in tutorial! Weaker answers are based on vague generalizations or assumptions.
- The greatest single problem in essay answers is the lack of supporting examples.Remember that Jews were not expelled from England, France, or Spain in the middle ages because Christians hated the Jews but because of specific political, social, and cultural changes in those societies. Although the results were the same, the reasons were different in Spain, France or England.
- As in any essay, make sure to acknowledge any counter evidence. If you discount counter evidence, you need to make sure you explain why.
- Stick to the point
- Tie your essay together by stating your conclusions in the end
March 30 2010 10:20 pm | Uncategorized