How to Write a Source Interpretation


The Provincial Diploma Examination in Social Studies 30-1 has two parts. 
Each are scored according to the provincial criteria used in this course AND on the upcoming diploma exam.


Part A

Part A is the written exam consisting of two assignments
  1. Written Assignment I is a Source Interpretation worth 20% of your overall exam grade.
  2. Written Assignment II is a Position Paper worth 30% of your overall exam grade.

Part B

Part B of the provincial diploma is composed of 60 source-based, multiple-choice questions.


Written Response Assignment I

Source Interpretation asks you to interpret three sources and identify a relationship among the sources. Marks are also awarded for your ability to effectively communicate your ideas.

This assignment is worth 20% of your total examination mark.

    You must interpret each source, and demonstrate your understanding of how each source links to liberalism.
    You must identify and explain a relationship that exists among all three sources.

The source analysis assignment looks like this:

Assignment I: Source Interpretation

Value: 20% of total examination mark
Suggested time: 45-60 minutes
 
Analyze the following source and complete the assignment.
---Source I goes here---
Photo, visual image, cartoon, or text
---Source II goes here---
Photo, visual image, cartoon, or text
---Source III goes here---
Photo, visual image, cartoon, or text

 

Examine each source.

Write a response in paragraph form in which you do the following:

  1. interpret each source to demonstrate your understanding of how each source links to liberalism
  2. explain one or more of the relationships that exist among the three sources


As you read your first draft, ask the following questions:

  • Did I interpret each source thoroughly?
  • Did I establish a clear connection between each source and the principles of liberalism?
  • Does my explanation make sense ?
  • Did I explain clearly how the sources are connected or related?
  • Are my ideas organized logically?
  • How are my spelling, grammar, and word usage?


Assignment II: Position Paper

 Value: 30% of total examination mark
Suggested time: 105-120 minutes
Analyze the following source and complete the assignment.
statement/quote of one-two sentences will be here
 


Revise and edit your essay based on these questions.

If you are using a word processor, be sure to set the language to English (Canada) and to use spell check and grammar check. If you are not sure, ask for help. Remember that you can bring a thesaurus, dictionary, and an approved writing handbook for use during the Diploma Exam.

Want to see examples of student work?  Check out these responses from previous diploma exams.