To answer this question correctly, students must select Fact 1 and explain why it might lead them to question the reliability of Melvin Laird’s interview for understanding the outcome of the Vietnam War. Fact 1 reveals that Laird was secretary of defense when the United States withdrew its forces from Vietnam. Students should reason that Laird may have wanted to avoid blame for the fall of Vietnam by portraying the South Vietnamese forces as insufficiently committed to the fight.
Level: Proficient
Student selects the correct fact and explains how it casts doubt on the reliability of the document.
Level: Emergent
Student selects the correct fact but does not provide an adequate or complete explanation of how it would lead them to question the reliability of the document.
Level: Basic
Student does not select the correct fact or selects the correct fact but does not provide a relevant explanation.
