National History Day

National History Day is a history competition with contests on the regional, state and national levels.  A different theme is chosen each year.  Students in grades 6-8 must choose a topic that relates to the theme.  They can express the information that they learn about their topic by putting together an exhibit, a performance, a documentary, a web-site, or by writing a paper.  All categories can be done by an individual or (with the exception of the paper) as a group of up to five students. 

Students are strongly encouraged to use primary sources as part of their research.  Many of these sources can be found on the Internet, but it is important to use primary sources from places like state or national archives, museums, historic sites and libraries. 

Students who choose to take part in National History Day at St. Raphael the Archangel School should begin their research in September and do most of their reading during the first and second quarters.  After Christmas break, students are expected to stay after school and come to school on Saturdays to work on their entries. 

This is a really good opportunity for students to learn a great deal about a particular topic.  The skills that they acquire while participating in National History Day will help them as they continue their education.  The regional contest is held on the campus of the University of Missouri – St. Louis.  The state contest is held at the University of Missouri – Columbia.  The national contest takes place at the campus of the University of Maryland – College Park.