THEMATIC ESSAY QUESTION
Directions: Write a well-organized essay that includes an introduction, several paragraphs addressing the task below, and a conclusion.
Theme:
Constitutional Principles — Individual Rights
Throughout United States history, many different groups have faced
discrimination. The federal and state governments have taken actions that have
either protected or limited the rights of these groups in American society.
Task:
Select two different groups in American society who have faced discrimination
and for each
• Describe one specific example of discrimination faced by the group
• Describe one action taken by the federal or state governments related to this
example of discrimination
• Discuss how the action taken by the federal or state governments either
protected or limited the rights of the group
You may use any example from your study of United States history. Some groups you
might wish to consider include Native American Indians, African Americans, Asian
Americans, Hispanic Americans, women, the elderly, and the disabled.
You are not limited to these suggestions.
Guidelines:
In your essay, be sure to
• Develop all aspects of the task
• Support the theme with relevant facts, examples, and details
• Use a logical and clear plan of organization, including an introduction and a conclusion that are beyond a restatement of the theme
