Writing a TCQC Short Answer Response
A TCQC Short Answer contains the following elements:
1. Topic Sentence: The answer you are giving to the question. Write a general statement
that sums up your answer. Sometimes it is a good idea to do this step last, since you may
need to look at your supporting details before you generalize them.
2. Context (of a Quotation, Paraphrase, or Image): A sentence or more that introduces the
quotation, paraphrase, or image and serves as the evidence defending your answer. Help
the reader understand where this quotation or paraphrase occurs in the reading by
mentioning the page number and the situation. A sample introduction, or context: “On page
17 we see that the author references the proportional design elements of the Vitruvian Man.”
If you are referencing an image make sure to use correct architectural vocabulary and
specific descriptions: “The obelisk, as seen on the left side of the photograph, has a cross at
the peak.”
3. Quotation, Paraphrase or Image Reference: The actual text, image, or paraphrase from
the original text.
a) If you are using an image reference: Can you take the example in number 2 above and
add more supporting details? Can you use an example that answers the writing prompt
question about how your hometown has shaped your interest in architecture?
b) If you are using a quotation from the text or an informative caption for an image:
include its parenthetical citation, which is the page number where you found that
quotation.
c) If you are paraphrasing (which is rewording and reordering the details and ideas from a
quotation): In order to avoid plagiarism choose synonyms instead of recopying the
author’s words and reorder the structure of the sentence.
d) If you are citing an image include the project’s name, creator, and date made. This is an
easy task for drawings. But it can be complicated with photographs since you need to
include the source of the photograph in addition to the information listed above.
4. Commentary: The elaboration on the quotation or paraphrase illustrating how it proves the
answer you are giving. You should reference the topic sentence as well as single out words
from the quotation or call out additional points about the image that help explain your
answer. Analyze connotation, denotation, and figurative language as you elaborate.
Reinventions in Architecture: A Benefit of the 4th-6th Grade Talent Search
© 2012 Duke University Talent Identification Program
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