National History Day is a contest that encourages more than half a million students around the world to conduct historical research on a topic of their choice. Along with selecting a topic, students may choose a category (Exhibit, website, documentary, performance, or paper) they believe best presents their information. Students will enter their final project at our school competition, with the opportunity of advancing to the regional, state (UW-Madison), and national (University of Maryland) competitions. (nhd.org)
Why National History Day?
National History Day teaches critical thinking, writing, and research skills and boosts performance across all subjects, not only History. An independent study done in 2011 found that NHD students outperform their non NHD peers on state standardized tests in multiple subjects, including reading, science and math, as well as social studies. NHD students are motivated critical thinkers who can digest and analyze information. (nhd.org)
National History Day also benefits students beyond a middle school classroom. NHD prepares students for college, careers, and citizenship. Students learn 21st century college- and career-ready skills. They learn to collaborate with team members, talk to experts, manage their time, and persevere. This potentially translates into students becoming writers, filmmakers, web designers, playwrights, and artists as they create unique contemporary expressions of history. (nhd.org)
I hope you are excited for the challenging and rewarding experience that National History Day offers!