Participation in History Day requires that students master many skills. Many of these skills dovetail with current Learner Outcomes defined by the State Department of Education. Students participating in History Day will also meet many of the proposed competencies for Outcome Based Education.

Demonstrate understanding of history by creating a History Day entry on a specific topic and understanding its relationship to other events.

Develop and use critical thinking skills involved in comprehension:

• identifying events in sequence
• discriminating between facts and opinions
• recognizing cause and effect
• drawing inferences and reaching conclusions
• recognizing attitudes and emotions

• develop objectivity and openmindedness
• defining problems
• considering alternatives
• drawing conclusions
• clarifying values

• identifying the central problem
• locating sources of information and evaluating their reliability
• organizing, analyzing, and interpreting information
• using information to test hypotheses, draw conclusions, and offer solutions

• organizing and classifying related facts
• using primary and secondary sources
• using a dictionary, map atlas, almanac, and other reference works
• skimming for information
• using a glossary and an index
• developing work and study habits

Present a balance interpretation by critical use of available resources.

Demonstrate a clear understanding of writing mechanics by:

• using clear, grammatical, and correctly spelled written material
• building an annotated bibliography
• outlining a topic's presentation
• learning effective essay/paragraph writing

• developing an efficient method of time management for independent study
• learning to work with others as a team to produce an entry
• developing methods of presenting self and information in an effective manner