First Body Paragraph: Did the Benefits Outweigh the Costs?

In this assignment, you will write the first body paragraph of your multi-paragraph essay on the topic: The Great Wall of Ancient China. Did the Benefits Outweigh the Costs? You have already analyzed six DBQ documents about the costs and benefits of the Great Wall. Use evidence from these documents to support your argument in this paragraph.

(Each paragraph of this essay should focus on a main point from the thesis; this paragraph should reference your first point from your thesis statement, which should be your 2nd strongest point.)

Body Paragraph 1 - This should match with your first reason in your thesis statement.

Topic Sentence:

• Introduce the main idea of the paragraph that supports your thesis.

*This is one sentence.

Evidence #1:

• Context: Provide background information about the document or the event or issue tied to the evidence.

• Lead-in: Explain the source of the evidence (author, date, type of document).

• Evidence: Include a direct quote or paraphrase from the DBQ document.

Commentary Set #1: (Commentary Sentences 1 & 2)

• Explain what the evidence means and how it supports your argument.

• Connect it to your thesis.

Evidence #2:

• Transition (can be a word, phrase or sentence): A strong transition between your first and second pieces of evidence should connect the two ideas logically and reinforce your argument. It should show how the second piece of evidence builds upon or contrasts with the first.

  • Strategies for a Smooth Transition:

    1. Expand on the Idea – Show how the second piece of evidence adds more depth to your argument.

    2. Highlight Cause and Effect – Explain how the first piece of evidence leads to or influences the second.

    3. Use a Linking Phrase – Phrases like furthermore, in addition, another example of this is, and similarly, help create a seamless transition.

• Context: Provide background information about the document or the event or issue tied to the evidence.

• Lead-in: Explain the source of the evidence (author, date, type of document).

• Evidence: Introduce and cite another document to further support the claim.

Commentary Set #2: (Commentary Sentences 3 & 4)

• Explain the significance of the second piece of evidence.

• Discuss the impact of this evidence on the historical period or event.

Concluding Sentence / Transition:

• Wrap up the paragraph and transition smoothly to the next one.

Now copy and paste everything together.