【学術的豆知識】東大論述で「指定語句」が課される意味とは?
東大日本史の論述問題で特徴的なのが、「指定語句」の使用義務だ。これは単に受験生の語彙力を試しているだけではない。多くの場合、指定語句は、その問題で論じるべき重要な歴史的要素や概念、あるいは論理の骨格となるキーワードを示唆しているんだ。つまり、出題者は、これらの語句を的確に理解し、それらを相互に関連付けながら論理的な説明を構築できるかどうかを見ている。だから、指定語句をただ文中に登場させるだけでなく、それぞれの語句が持つ歴史的意味を正確に捉え、設問の文脈の中で有機的に結びつけて使うことが、高得点への鍵となる。指定語句は、君の思考を導く「道しるべ」でもあるんだ。
(Click to listen) A characteristic feature of essay questions in the University of Tokyo's Japanese history exam is the requirement to use "specified terms." This is not merely testing the examinee's vocabulary. In many cases, these specified terms suggest crucial historical elements, concepts, or keywords that should form the backbone of the argument for that question. In other words, the examiners are looking to see if students can accurately understand these terms and logically construct an explanation by organically connecting them within the context of the question. Therefore, not just simply including the specified terms in the sentences, but accurately grasping the historical meaning of each term and using them in a contextually and organically linked manner is key to a high score. Specified terms are also "guideposts" to direct your thinking.
This Page's Summary in English (Click to expand and listen to paragraphs)
This page, "Essay Writing Masterclass," provides intensive training for tackling the challenging essay questions in the University of Tokyo's Japanese history exam. Mastering essay writing is crucial for translating historical knowledge and analytical skills into high-scoring answers.
The University of Tokyo's essay questions vary in length and type (e.g., explanatory, comparative, cause-and-effect analysis, evaluative, source-based) and almost always require the use of specified terms. A systematic approach to essay writing involves five key steps: 1. Thoroughly analyze the question to understand exactly what is being asked. 2. Recall relevant knowledge and organize information, considering how to use specified terms. 3. Structure the essay logically (e.g., introduction, body, conclusion), keeping word limits in mind. 4. Write clearly and concisely, using accurate historical terminology and effective connecting phrases. 5. Review and revise for errors, completeness, and clarity.
Techniques for high-scoring essays include incorporating multiple perspectives, clearly stating historical context, effectively using comparison and contrast, discussing historical significance and impact, and providing concrete historical evidence. Common pitfalls to avoid include misinterpreting the question, factual errors, improper use of specified terms, poor logical structure, and merely listing facts without analysis.
Practical exercises with sample Edo-period essay questions, along with analyses of thought processes and model answer outlines, are provided to illustrate these principles. Continuous improvement requires consistent practice, seeking feedback, studying model answers critically, reading scholarly works, and habitually explaining historical concepts in one's own words. Specified terms are not just vocabulary tests but guideposts indicating key elements and logical frameworks for the answer.
論述の奥義、少しは掴めただろうか? この講座で学んだことを武器に、数多くの問題に挑戦し、君自身の「歴史を語る力」を磨き上げていこう!
次は、学習をさらにサポートするためのインタラクティブなツールや、より深く学ぶための推薦図書などを紹介するぞ。