Significance of a World War II event
Instructions:
· US II Choose a major event from the period of World War II to the election of Barack Obama in 2008.
· US I Choose a major event from the Election of Thomas Jefferson up to American Imperialism in the 1880’s.
***Complete the following steps when writing your paper. Dates will be identified for each step.
· Thesis/Essential Question
o A thesis is the central, core argument being made by the person writing the paper.
The thesis should provide the research paper with a point, or reason for presenting the evidence uncovered during the investigation of the topic.
o This is where the point/question is presented and then evidence gathered will prove your argument.
o C, E, J: Claim, Evidence, Justification
· Identify the facts/information of the event using primary source documents.
o What happened? Where did the event take place?
o Conflicting information? Contradicting information? (Use secondary sources)
· Explain the significance of the event
o Include detailed background information. What was the background of events that led to its occurrence?
o Why is the event important? Is it remembered as such today? (For example, how much space does your textbook devote to the subject? Is it something you knew about before?)
· Identify and Explain the aftermath/legacy; continued effect(s), if any; impact o What happened as a result of this event – in the long run?
o How do you think the subject should be remembered/commemorated? o Was the event critical or overblown based on information gathered?
· Give your assessment/analysis of the event. This is where your thesis/opinion comes in.
o Why does this event matter? What is it that you wish to prove about the event? o All of your writing in the paper will be guided by this central question.
Remember, you are not only telling the story of the event. You are trying to make a point about the event, and must use your research to support that point.
· Conclusion
o Reassert your point (thesis), and summarize how the evidence you have presented
from your research supports your central idea