Thesis — 1 ptA historically defensible claim that establishes a line of reasoning (not just a restatement of the prompt)
Context — 1 ptDescribe a broader historical situation relevant to the prompt — must be more than a passing phrase
Evidence — 2 pts1 pt: Two specific examples relevant to the topic. 2 pts: Use those examples to support an argument
Reasoning — 1 ptUse comparison, causation, or continuity/change over time to frame your argument
Complexity — 1 ptExplain multiple themes, causes/effects, or make connections across periods or regions