Written Responses
1. Introduction
In Social Studies 30-2 you will be required to write THREE different types of written responses. The chart below breaks each assignment down:
Social Studies 30-2 Written Response Format
Written Response, also known as Part A of our diploma exam, is worth 50% of your diploma exam grade. The multiple choice portion or Part B will make up the other 50% of your diploma exam grade. The Written Response is comprised of 3 separate writing assignments. Please budget your time wisely, you will notice that each writing assignment has a recommended time limit. PLEASE write on ALL of the assignments.
Summary of Assignments
| Description of Skills | Description of Assignment | Weightings |
Assignment I (recommended time to complete assignment: approx.. 20-25 mins) Suggested word count: 250-550 | Demonstrate understandingand apply the skill of evaluation to Social Studies Knowledge. | Visual cue with words (puzzle, crossword, blocks, web) in which you will sort knowledge and attach value to concepts or ideas. | Total of 10 Marks
Explanations and Support 8/10 Communication 2/10 |
Assignment II (40-45 mins) Suggested word count: 375-900 | Demonstrate the skills of interpreting, evaluating and synthesizing through the application of Social Studies knowledge. | Three visual sources (graph, photograph, cartoon, and/or poster) are presented. Use the details from these sources and your understanding of Social Studies to defend a position. | Total of 20 Marks
Interpretation of Sources 8/20 Defense of Position 8/20 Communication 4/20 |
Assignment III (40-45 mins) Suggested word count: 350-800 | Demonstrate the skills of analyzing, evaluating and synthesizing of Social Studies knowledge. | Explore an issue and analyze various points of view (3) on the issue that are presented. Create a response that explains and supports your point of view on the issue. | Total of 20 Marks
Exploration and Analysis 8/20 Defense of Position 8/20 Communication 4/20 |
A guide for students preparing to write diploma examinations is available on the Alberta Learning website. www.education.alberta.ca(click on student tab)
Part A is developed to be completed in 2 hours; however, you may take an additional ½ hour to complete Part A (for a total of 2 ½ hours).