Contest Rules
Be sure to use the current edition of the NHD Rule Book.
What is Utah History Day?
Utah History Day is Utah’s official National History Day affiliate. Formerly called Utah History Fair, this program has operated continuously in Utah since 1980. Last year, more than 5,000 Utah students in 4th through 12th grade participated in History Day, learning how to conduct real historical research and then create a final project that showcases their work. Students present their projects in a series of contests beginning at the school or district level and advancing through regional and state competitions. Utah’s top entries qualify to compete at the National History Day competition in Washington, D.C., each June.
History Day brings history to life for students as they discover the past by choosing a topic from local, national, or world history, conducting their own research, and drawing reasoned conclusions based on historical evidence. Students who participate in History Day do much more than memorize facts from a textbook, they develop their abilities in reading, writing, critical thinking, and creative presentation. History Day builds a host of college and career ready skills while inspiring students to strive for excellence.
Can I participate if my school does not? YES! Students may complete a project and enter their local regional competition on their own. No teacher sponsor is necessary to compete as an independent student.
Who can participate? Any Utah student in grades 4-12. Utah History Day is open to children who attend public, private, parochial, charter, online, or home schools.
What does it cost? It’s FREE! There is no registration fee for regional or state competitions in Utah.
What should you expect and do on contest day?
- Arrive at the Shepherd Union Building at Weber State University at least 15 minutes before your scheduled interview time.
- Go directly to the interview room; there is no central check in table. Wait outside the room until the judges are ready for you. They will call you in. (Except exhibits, details for exhibits are below.)
- Be prepared to answer questions about the content and development of your project. Don't give a formal, prepared presentation.
- You are free to leave once you have met with the judges. Results will be posted by 8 pm March 3. There will not be an in-person awards ceremony.
Exhibit Projects
- If you have a physical exhibit, bring it to the ballroom, find your entry number on the table, and place your exhibit on the table. You don't have to wait for the judges to call you in, just wait at the table.
- If you have a virtual exhibit, you may bring a laptop with your exhibit file on it. Judges will have access to it if you don't bring it. Find your entry number on the table and wait for the judges there.
Website and Documentary Projects
- You can bring your project on a flash drive, if you want, as a back-up, but judges will be able to access your project on the computer in the room if you submitted it properly.
Paper Projects
- Judges have access to your paper electronically but you are welcome to bring a printed copy if you want.
Performance Projects
- You will perform live and interview with the judges.
NHD Judging Criteria
Historical Quality: 60%
· Historical Accuracy
· Historical Context
· Shows Analysis & Interpretation
· Uses available primary sources
· Wide Research
· Balanced Research
Relation to Theme: 20%
· Clearly relates topic to theme
· Demonsrates significance of topic in history and draws conclusions
Clarity of Presentation: 20%
· Project and written materials are original, clear, appropriate, organized, and articulate
· Project is organized; visual impact is appropriate to topic