Students in 8th grade are again participating in National History Day. Students in other middle school grades may participate too. Here is a general calendar for the project: I will update this page with specific dates when they are determined.

• Late in the 7th Grade year: Students choose a preliminary topic. They are strongly encouraged to choose a local or state topic or a topic based on family history or a place they have or will soon visit. Topics may be changed later.
• September: History Day is introduced to 8th graders. This years Theme: “Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History" is discussed. Students generate possible project ideas.
• September 27: Students must choose a History Day topic.
• October: Students begin research.
• October 24  Wilson Library Research Trip.
• November: History Day background paper is written: Note: this is an assignment for Language Arts class and is not a part of their project. It should however help them to organize their ideas. Students discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the various project categories and group work versus individual work.
• November 10: Note cards due.
• November 17: Outline Due
• December 1: 1st Draft Due.
• December 8: Students sign a History Day Contract.
• December 15: Paper Final Draft due.
• January: Students work on their project. A journal of regular progress must be signed by parents and returned to Mr. Ross regularly.
• Feburary 17: Project must be completed and at school for judging.
• Early March: West Metro Regional History Day 
• Early May. State History Day at the University of Minnesota.
• June: National History Day at the University of Maryland.

Where Can I Find Primary Sources?

Other Important Help Information
The Minnesota History Day program provides several ways to get your questions answered and get assistance with your project. These programs include The History Center Help Desk, Hang Out With a Historian, and The History Day Hotline. Please follow this link to find more information.

Watch the video below to find out more about the National History Day contest.

Here is a good example of a documentary.