As APUSH students gear up for the 2024 exam, it’s crucial to understand the updated Document-Based Question (DBQ) rubric. This guide will provide a thorough analysis of the new rubric, equipping students with the knowledge and skills to excel in this challenging task.
Rubric Overview
The APUSH 2024 DBQ rubric consists of seven criteria, each with a specific set of requirements:
| Criteria | Description |
|---|---|
| Historical Contextualization | Accurately places the documents in historical context. |
| Sourcing the Documents | Correctly identifies the source of each document and its credibility. |
| Compiling Evidence | Effectively selects and explains relevant evidence from the documents to support an argument. |
| Responding to the Prompt | Clearly and directly answers the prompt using specific evidence from the documents. |
| Contextualization within the Prompt | Connects the evidence to the broader historical context indicated in the prompt. |
| Evidentiary Reasoning | Analyzes the evidence to support a historical interpretation or argument. |
| Synthesis | Demonstrates an understanding of the relationship between the documents and creates a cohesive argument. |
Scoring Criteria
Each criterion is assessed on a scale of 0-3 points:
| Score | Description |
|---|---|
| 0 | The response does not meet the criteria. |
| 1 | The response partially meets the criteria. |
| 2 | The response meets the criteria. |
| 3 | The response exceeds the expectations of the criteria. |
Tips for Scoring High
To maximize their DBQ score, students should focus on the following strategies:
- Practice identifying historical context and key terms.
- Develop strong source analysis skills to assess the reliability and bias of documents.
- Gather evidence from multiple documents to support their argument.
- Respond to the prompt directly and use specific examples from the documents.
- Consider the broader historical context and connect it to the evidence.
- Analyze the relationship between the documents and formulate a nuanced argument.
- Proofread carefully to ensure clarity and accuracy.
Sample DBQ Prompt
Prompt: To what extent did the Industrial Revolution transform American society between 1870-1914?
Example Response
(Historical Contextualization: 3 points)
The Industrial Revolution, a period of rapid technological advancement, transformed American society in the years 1870-1914. By 1900, the United States had become the world’s largest industrial producer.
(Sourcing the Documents: 2 points)
Document 1 is a newspaper article from 1870 that highlights the growing demand for factory workers. Document 2 is a census report from 1914 that shows the significant increase in the urban population during this period.
(Compiling Evidence: 3 points)
Document 1 states that “the rising demand for labor has prompted manufacturers to establish factories in all parts of the country.” Document 2 reveals that the urban population increased from 25% in 1870 to 51% in 1914.
(Responding to the Prompt: 3 points)
The Industrial Revolution transformed American society by fueling westward expansion and the growth of cities. By 1914, the United States had become a global economic powerhouse.
(Contextualization within the Prompt: 3 points)
The rapid industrialization led to significant social and economic changes, including the growth of cities, the rise of a middle class, and the emergence of new social problems such as poverty and inequality.
(Evidentiary Reasoning: 2 points)
The increase in factory jobs resulted in a large influx of workers into cities, leading to overcrowded living conditions and the spread of disease. However, the Industrial Revolution also created wealth and economic opportunities for many Americans.
(Synthesis: 3 points)
The Industrial Revolution was a complex and transformative period in American history. It sparked technological innovation, urbanization, and economic growth, yet it also brought significant social challenges. By analyzing the evidence in the documents, we can gain a deeper understanding of the profound impact of the Industrial Revolution on American society.
Conclusion
The APUSH 2024 DBQ rubric provides clear guidelines for scoring this challenging task. By understanding the criteria, practicing source analysis, and developing strong argumentation skills, students can maximize their potential and achieve a high score on the DBQ.
