This Year's Theme

The 2022 Exhibits guidelines are different from previous years due to the virtual nature of the contest.
Find updated guidelines here


Tips for Students:

Exhibits

Credit to Amy Cohen for her tips
  • Check judging sheet regularly to remember what's most important!
  • Let your thesis be your guide; all material should support the thesis.
  • Follow rules closely.
  • The process paper should be detailed and flawless.

Organization-YOUR EXHIBIT SHOULD LOGICALLY PRESENT YOUR ANALYSIS OF A HISTORICAL TOPIC

  • Prominent thesis
  • Well-defined sections of your board; it should be easy for a viewer to be led through exhibit on their own
  • Timeline if appropriate
  • Avoid huge chunks of text; break into bullets
  • Highlight unusual research, primary sources, interviews

Design/aesthetics-YOUR EXHIBIT SHOULD LOOK FANTASTIC!

  • Appropriate, consistent color scheme (fabric, paint, or spray paint board) - don't leave plain white
  • Appropriate, consistent and LARGE font - no 12 pt Times New Roman!
  • Mount everything - don't stick directly on board on card stock or foam board if possible)
  • Make straight cuts - don't use foam board if you don't have the cutting tools; use paper cutter for paper
  • Use clear, colorful, varied, and interesting images
    • PDF's, not printouts of news articles
    • If appropriate, show person, not just a quote
    • Avoid frequently used images

Creativity-YOUR EXHIBIT SOULD BE EXCITING, ORIGINAL, AND COMPELLING

  • Consider altering shape of board and/or title board
  • Make use of area in front of board
  • Incorporate audio or visual components
  • Perhaps include interactive features (lift the flap, primary sources in pockets, etc.)
  • If appropriate to topic, use lighting that does not need to be plugged in

CAREFULLY PROOFREAD EVERYTHING BEFORE YOU PUT IT ON YOUR BOARD

  • Be able to move and change things on your board until you've gotten feedback