Virginia History Day

April 20, 2013

“Turning Points in History: People, Ideas, Events”

A History Competition

Virginia History Day is a history competition for students in grades six through twelve. It is conducted at district and state levels in conjunction with the Kenneth E. Behring National History Day program. The first round of competition is held in the eight Districts of Virginia. Students in grades six through eight (6-8) are assigned to the junior division, students in grades nine through twelve (9-12) are assigned to the senior division. In each division, students may compete in any one of nine categories:

• Individual Documentary
• Group Documentary
• Individual Exhibit
• Group Exhibit
• Individual Historical Paper
• Individual Performance
• Group Performance
• Group Websites
• Individual Websites

The two best entries in each category, and in each age division, at the District competition qualify for the State contest, which will be held on Saturday, April 20 at Thomas Nelson Community College - Historic Triangle. Judging begins at 9 am. The awards ceremony will be held at Lois Hornsby Middle School beginning at 2:30 pm.

The two best entries in each category, and in each age division, at the State competition qualify for the national competition, which will be held at the University of Maryland, College Park. [For details regarding competition rules see the Contest Rule Book.]

Competition Theme

The theme of the Kenneth E. Behring National History Day 2013 is “Turning Points in History: People, Ideas, Events.” Students are encouraged to examine their topic's influence on history and draw conclusions about the ways in which their topic had an impact on the course of events and on individuals, communities, nations, or the world. Students and teachers are encouraged to remember local history and local resources when selecting topics.

Sponsoring Teachers

Each student works with a sponsoring teacher who is usually from the student's school. The teacher provides guidance and encouragement during the course of the project.

Educational Support

History Day supports and reinforces the efforts of teachers by emphasizing basic writing, reading, and research skills. The program takes education beyond the classroom, encouraging the use of libraries, historical societies, and museums. Most importantly, the program stimulates and rewards student initiative, creativity, and excellence.