National History Day Project - 8th Grade

  • What is National History Day?


    National History Day is a national contest for students in grades 6-12. The students conduct extensive research related to a theme and present their findings in one of four categories: exhibits, documentaries, performances or websites. Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while creating their entries. There are two divisions: junior (grades 6-8) and senior (grades 9-12). Students can choose to participate in the contest individually, or as part of a group of up to five students. The competition starts at the county level and progresses to state and national competitions. At the national contest participants have the opportunity to win national awards of up to $5,000 and university scholarships.
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    Student exhibits are designed to display visual and written information on topics in an attractive and easily understood manner. They are similar to exhibits found in a museum. To be successful, an exhibit must create an effective balance between visual interest and historical explanation.
    Students can create a website as a representation of their research that incorporates both textual and non-textual content (e.g. images, songs, interviews, videos, and other media) to engage and inform viewers about their topic. Through a website students are able to incorporate non-textual elements with which a viewer can interact. Image