What is NHD?

​National History Day is an inquiry-based learning program that supports disciplinary skills in the classroom when they choose a topic in history to fit the yearly theme.

History Day projects teach students independence, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. They will utilize research and reading skills while developing self-esteem and confidence.

National History Day can be used in classrooms with 4th—to 12th-grade students, focusing on historical research, interpretation, and creative expression.

Why use NHD in your classroom?

​By participating in NHD, students become writers, filmmakers, Web designers, playwrights, and artists as they create unique contemporary expressions of history. The experience culminates in a series of contests at the local and state levels and an annual national competition in the nation’s capital in June.

National History Day provides everything teachers need to bring students an unforgettable learning adventure that integrates with and enhances standards-based curriculum. With sample topics, a guide to conducting historical research in the classroom, lesson plans, and more, the flexible NHD program teaches, prepares, and inspires.

National History Day not only transports classrooms back in time during the school year but also transforms young minds forever.

How does NHD impact learning?

  • NHD students outperform their non-NHD peers on state standardized tests in multiple subjects, including reading, science, math, and social studies.

  • NHD students are better writers who write with a purpose and authentic voice and marshal solid evidence to support their point of view. NHD positively impacts students whose interest in academic subjects may wane in high school. Among Black and Hispanic students, NHD students outperform non-NHD students, posting higher performance assessment scores, interest levels, and skills.

  • NHD participants reported significantly higher levels of interest in history, civic engagement, and confidence in research skills on both pre- and post-surveys compared to non-NHD participants.
    Visit     NHD Works for more details on why NHD is an excellent addition to your classroom