The annual theme for the 2012 contest is Revolution, Reaction, Reform in History.
Students are forced to ask questions of cause and effect, time and place, change over time, and impact and significance. They must ask not only when events happened but also why they happened and what impact they had. What factors contributed to a revolution? Why was there a need to reform at the particular time? Why did this event cause a revolution? Studies should include an investigation into available primary and secondary sources, analysis of evidence, and a clear explanation of the relationship of the topic to the theme. Students may show their research as papers, performances, documentaries, websites or exhibits for entry into History Day.
Students compete in either Junior (grades 6-8) or Senior (grades 9-12) divisions. Students can present their knowledge in a variety of ways through the categories of Documentaries, Exhibits, Papers, Performances, or Web Sites. They may choose to work individually or in a group except for the Papers category where they must work individually.
The New Mexico State contest is April 27, 2012, at the National Hispanic Cultural Center.
If you would like more information call Trevor Carter, History Day Coordinator, at 505/277-3474.
Click the link below for a more in-depth description of the 2012 National History Day theme.
