What are the steps of an MHD project? 

• Choose a topic connected to the annual theme. 
• Develop a research question focusing on impact, significance, and change over time.
• Research with a focus on primary sources.
• Analyze evidence to develop an argument.
• Choose a project type (paper, exhibit, website, documentary, performance, podcast).
• Create an impressive annotated bibliography.
• Write a short process paper.
• Revise and refine their work based on feedback.
• Showcase at a school event and/or enter a Massachusetts History Day Regional Contest.

What is the timeline for an MHD project?

Fall (September - October) 

Introduce theme, choose topics, choose groups, build context

Fall/Winter (October - December) 

Research, develop argument, research, refine argument

Winter (December - January)

Create project, finalize annotated bibliography, revise, School Showcases

Spring (March - June) 

Regionals, States, Nationals

How can students participate in MHD?

In-Classroom

History Day is integrated into the curriculum over 6–15 weeks. In some schools it is a grade level requirement, while in others the project lives with a particular subject or teacher. 

After-School Club 

Some schools use a co-curricular approach where students work after school in small groups with a teacher or community advisor. 

Independent Participation 

Students can participate individually if their school has no History Day program. They will need a teacher/advisor to assist with registration.

Project Limits per School

Each school (with some exceptions) may send up to the following number of projects to their regional contest in each category. These limits do not apply to schools in their first year of participation in MHD. 

How can the Massachusetts Historical Society help schools start and sustain a History Day program?

For Teachers

MHS offers free PD and classroom coaching, sample project scaffolds, pacing guides, and project templates. We provide implementation stipends and other funding for program materials (when funding is available). We host opportunities for teachers to gain leadership experience on our Teacher Advisory Council, as mentor teachers, and to work in partnership to develop new resources.

For Students

MHS offers research help from MHS staff, curated primary source sets, feedback sessions to help with research or project creation, and opportunities for leadership and mentoring through our Youth Advisory Board.

For Schools & Communities

MHS supports designing showcases and community events, helps to identify and connect community partners, offers class visits, and access to the MHS collections both digital and onsite.