The Core Scoring method was adopted in 2000 to grade the DBQ. The core below is the rubric that will be used once again to grade the 2005 exams.  All core points must be earned before any extra points can be achieved. Expanded core points will be added to essays that earn the first 6 points, based on the extent to which the essay exceeds the basic core and displays the characteristics of the expanded core.

1.  Has an acceptable and explicit thesis that        directly answers the question. Thesis MAY NOT just restate the question.

2.  Uses a majority of the documents individually and specifically.

3.  Demonstrates understanding of the basic meaning of a majority of the documents (may misinterpret no more than one document)

4.  Supports the thesis with appropriate interpretations of a majority of the documents.

5.  Analyzes bias or point of view in at least 3 documents

6.  Analyzes documents by explicitly organizing them in at least 3 appropriate groups.  A group must contain at least 2 docs.

1.  Has a clear, analytical, and comprehensive thesis.

2.  Uses all or almost all documents.

3.  Addresses all parts of the Q. thoroughly.

4.  Uses docs persuasively as evidence.

5.  Shows understanding of nuances in the docs.

6.  Analyzes point of view or bias in at least four docs cited in the essay.

7.  Analyzes the docs in additional ways--additional groupings, etc.

8.  Brings in relevant "outside" historical content.