National History Day How to: Creating an Exhibit

What is an Exhibit? A physical display of documents, images, and objects to present your topic. Thinking outside the box: Exhibits can be more than just a poster board. Get creative!

Exhibit Basics Check the Contest Rule Book for all rules 500 word limit for your own words. 3-dimensional: Up to 40 inches wide, 30 inches deep, 6 feet high. Can be interactive Text is restricted to what is essential to tell your story

What does your project need to “do”? Tell a story Reveal change over time Consider historical perspective Provide context Ask questions Draw conclusions Find facts

What does your project need to “do”? Important: Your text should provide analysis and interpretation of your sources and should always work to support your argument. You will not be doing a 10-20 minute presentation of your research, so it needs to be on your exhibit.

How do I choose a topic? Brainstorm topics related to the theme. Learn what historical resources are nearby. Think through controversial topics. Choose something you think is interesting!

How do I research my topic? Start with secondary sources They help you understand your topic more completely. Will point you toward primary sources. Help you pick the specific themes and key questions you want to address and ask. Can I use websites? Yes, but don’t do all your research there.

How do I research my topic? Primary sources! NHD defines these as materials directly related to a topic by time or participation. Sources can be both primary and secondary depending on how it’s used. Look in the footnotes and bibliographies of secondary sources to find them. Talk to a librarian, teacher, archivist, or historian!

Ok, I have sources. Now what? Not all primary sources are primary to your topic. Think about these questions: What type of source is it? What is the date? Who created it? Where was it produced?

What do I put on exhibit? Does it fit the theme? Does it further the story you’re telling? Is it too wordy, too large? Is it visually interesting? Do you want to include artifacts? Do you want interactives? Will it have media?

Your “Script” Label hierarchy: Title, Subheadings, Information Don’t overuse quotes to get around word limit. Consider what your most important points are. Title Heading Main Text

What should my exhibit look like? Consider color, size, legibility, texture, and space Does it support your topic? Does not have to be elaborate or expensive to be award winning. Visit a museum exhibit. Have fun with it!

But, what if I have questions? That’s easy, contact: Cheryl Caskey at cheryl.caskey@ky.gov or 502-564-1792 ext.4461. Or, visit: http://nhd.org/CreatingEntry.htm. Or, visit: www.facebook.com/kyjhs. Or, visit: www.history.ky.gov.