Vermont History Day is an exciting education program that encourages students to study history and expand their knowledge. It also provides the opportunity to share the knowledge they have gained from their historical research by creating projects for the state contest. Vermont History Day is affiliated with National History Day.
The program is open to Vermont students in grades five through twelve and home study students ages 10 to 18.
Working individually or in small groups (up to 5), students choose a topic related to the National History Day annual theme, which in 2013 is "Turning Points in History: People, Ideas, Events." The topic can relate to Vermont history or US history or world history.
Students conduct research in libraries, museums, and historical societies, and interview experts on their topic. Using their new knowledge and incorporating primary sources, the students develop their projects in the format of their choice: exhibits, web sites, documentaries, performances or papers.
The entries are then judged by local historians, educators, and other professionals at the state program. Through their work, students gain a deeper understanding of how people, cultures, and events affect the course of history. This year's state contest will take place on Saturday, April 6, 2013 at Spaulding High School in Barre.
Information for teachers and home study educators
The Vermont Historical Society has developed a guide for History Day. The VHD curriculum packet contains valuable information relating to the 2013 theme, "Turning Points in History," contest guidelines, and research resources. Much of the material is also found on the National History Day website. To request a hard copy of the History Day Teacher Packet, contact:
Victoria Hughes
Vermont History Education Programs Manager
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(802) 828-1413
Or write:
Vermont Historical Society
109 State Street
Montpelier, VT 05609
