National History Day
A semester-long research initiative developing historical thinking skills
Skills Demonstrated
- Curriculum Adaptation: Modified NHD program for different school contexts
- Technology Integration: Implemented NoodleTools as a research platform
- Program Leadership: Coordinated department-wide initiatives
- Crisis Management: Successfully pivoted to virtual format during COVID
- Student Engagement: Created meaningful research experiences
Tsinghua International School Implementation
As part of the Social Studies Department at Tsinghua International School, I participated in the long-standing National History Day (NHD) program, a semester-long activity that engaged students in authentic historical research.
Grade-Level Activities
9th Grade Research Project
- Utilized NoodleTools for source organization
- Emphasized primary source analysis
- Developed organizational skills with digital note cards
- Created comprehensive final research products
AP US History Document Based Question Project
- Students designed their own DBQs enhancing both historical understanding and critical knowledge of the test structure
- Selected topics based on personal research interests
- Practiced advanced research and analytical skills
History Day Event
The semester culminated in History Day, where students showcased their research projects to the entire school community as a gallery walk. This event celebrated student work and fostered a culture of academic excellence.
COVID-19 Adaptation
During my first year coordinating History Day, the in-person event was interrupted by COVID-19 restrictions. With only a few days notice, I:
- Transitioned the entire event to a virtual format
- Created digital showcases for student projects
- Organized online presentation sessions
- Maintained student engagement despite disruptions
The online History Day was a remarkable success, demonstrating flexibility and resilience in educational programming.
Bringing NHD to Delta Global School
Upon joining Delta Global School, I introduced National History Day to my 9th-grade social studies classes, adapting the successful model from Tsinghua International School.
Initial Implementation (2023-24)
Introduced the research project to 9th-grade classes with a focus on:
- Source evaluation using NoodleTools
- Thesis development and historical argumentation
- Note card organization system
Convincing School Leadership
Successfully advocated for school-wide adoption of NoodleTools as an essential research platform.
Future Expansion Plans
Currently working to establish NHD as a whole-department activity across grade levels in coming school years.
Educational Impact
National History Day develops essential skills that extend beyond history classrooms:
Research Skills
Students learn to locate, evaluate, and synthesize information from diverse sources.
Critical Thinking
Analyzing historical evidence develops analytical reasoning and argumentation skills.
Project Management
Managing a semester-long project teaches organization and time management.
Communication
Presenting findings develops written and oral communication abilities.
Legacy
National History Day has become a transformative experience for students at both schools. The program develops not just historical knowledge, but essential research, critical thinking, and presentation skills that serve students in all academic disciplines. As it expands to more grade levels at Delta Global School, it will continue to foster a culture of academic inquiry and excellence.