These are open essay questions. There is no one correct answer for these essays. Instead, you will be graded based on what you put in your answer – the more specific and detailed your essay the better.
These questions are designed to help you think about how the events and people covered in the course are connected to the larger ideas of the "modern world" - the general theme of the class. At the start of the year, the class discussed the question, “What does the term ‘modern’ mean in the phrase ‘modern world’?" The course is now at the start of twentieth century which was when many of the core ideas of the modern world had been developed. The class has studied many of the people and events that led to the formation of "modern world". The two questions you will answer for the exam will have you reflect on this history and evaluate it through the perspective of the idea of the term "modern world".
1. Considering the whole period of history the class has covered this year, from the period prior to the French Revolution to the start of World War One, what do you consider to be the three most important specific events (for example the Tennis Court Oath, invention of steam engine or Frano-Prussian War) in the development of the "modern world"?
2. Considering the whole period of history the class has covered this year, from the prior to the French Revolution to the start of World War One, who do you consider to be the three most important people in the development of the "modern world?
In your essay, you will need to make clear the characteristics that you associate with the "modern world".
Essay Format
Your exam essays should be clearly structured and written in a very direct style. Specifically:
•The first paragraph should be only one sentence – your thesis.
•You should have three supporting paragraphs that start with a topic sentence that clearly ties them to the thesis.
•You should not have a conclusion – it is unnecessary.
How to Study for Mid Year
Read through notes to refresh memory – if you do not have the notes, you can find them on the web page.
Review quizzes – the exam will have different questions, but names, events and ideas are the same.
Look back at Source or DBQ questions and tests.
Big Point – Review a little at a time. Put in 20 minutes each day over the course of two weeks. Think about reviewing a packet a day. Make note of what you have the most trouble with – review that again the night before the exam. Do not plan on one cram session the night before the exam.
