Big Lake Middle School held its History Day last week. Sixth, seventh, and eighth-graders showed off their knowledge on the theme of “debate and diplomacy.”

The Projects

Students began their projects back in November, and worked hard on them until their due date in mid-February. Students were allowed to pick any event in history that interested them, so long as it fell under the theme for the year. 

Many students put together traditional poster-board presentations, although some students presented their projects in a different format, through sketches, research papers, documentaries, or websites created to explain their topic.

For many students, the history day project was the first introduction they’ve had to research. Students learned about the importance of both primary and secondary sources, how to write a thesis statement, and other useful information.

Most importantly, students were tasked with explaining how their topic has an impact on their lives today.

Middle school teacher April Bischoff said the students worked very hard, especially as they approached the deadline.

Competition

Some talented students will get the opportunity to take their project to the regional competition. Their teachers will select the students who put in the most effort to make their project amazing. Students who do well at the regional level will have the opportunity to progress all the way to the national level of the competition. 

Social studies teacher Ann Segner wanted to note that the Minnesota Historical Society has been incredibly helpful to the project, giving advice sessions to the students, training to the teachers, and judges for the final project.