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Home > History Museum > Education > History Day > What is History Day?
What is National History Day?National History Day is an innovative history education program for students in grades 6-12 who are interested in improving their historical knowledge in a fun and challenging environment. Any student in this grade range who resides in Washington state is eligible to participate in National History Day in Washington State. Although it has been operating nationally since 1979, the first History Day contest in Washington State was held in 1982. The state program has grown from about 125 participants in 1982 to almost 3000 today, and is funded by various state and local organizations, corporations, and individuals. Each year, students choose a topic congruent with an annual theme, conduct research, then synthesize and analyze their findings into a paper, exhibit, documentary or performance, or website. Many students enter their projects in regional competitions, in hopes of advancing to the state and perhaps national contests. Students may participate in the junior (grades 6-8) or senior (grades 9-12) division, and work individually or in groups of up to five students. About 2,000 students choose to enter one of seven regional contests, held in February or March around the state. The highest-ranked entries advance to the state competition, held in late April or early May. First- and second-place winners at state go on to the national contest, held annually in mid-June at the University of Maryland in College Park, near Washington, DC. National History Day participants develop life skills in research, analysis, writing and presentation. They learn to define a historical question, locate source material, take notes, analyze information and present it in a cogent and effective manner, incorporating footnotes and comprehensive bibliographies to support their arguments. Since they select the presentation device—paper, exhibit, documentary or performance—they burnish their individual talents along the way. Students who participate in National History Day often cite it as a keystone experience of their education, promoting self-confidence, teaching vital skills, and encouraging active citizenship. And, it's a lot of fun. National History Day is more than a day-it's an experience. For more information, contact the state office. |
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