1. What is the purpose of the Hillsborough County History Fair?
The Hillsborough County History Fair provides an opportunity for students to engage with historical topics through research and presentation. It promotes critical thinking, research skills, and a deeper understanding of history, culminating in projects that reflect the annual National History Day theme.

2. What is the National History Day theme for this year?
The National History Day theme for this year is "Rights & Responsibilities in History". Students must align their projects with this theme, exploring historical events or figures through the lens of that topic.

3. What types of projects can be submitted for the History Fair? 
Students can submit projects in five categories: individual or group exhibits, documentaries, performances, websites, or individual historical papers. These categories allow students to choose a format that best fits their strengths and interests.

4. How are the projects judged?
Projects are judged based on three main criteria: historical quality (80%) and clarity of presentation (20%). Judges evaluate the depth of research, analysis of the topic, and the overall impact of the presentation.

5. How should students choose a topic for their project?
Students should select a topic that interests them and fits within the National History Day theme. The topic should be researchable, with available primary and secondary sources, and it should allow for in-depth analysis of its historical significance.

6. What is the importance of primary sources in a History Fair project?
Primary sources provide firsthand accounts and direct evidence of historical events, making them essential for building a strong, credible argument in a project. They help students gain unique insights into their topics and support their analysis with original materials.

7. What is the role of secondary sources in a History Fair project?
Secondary sources, such as books or articles written by historians, provide context and interpretation of historical events. They help students understand the broader significance of their topic and guide their research by offering scholarly analysis.

8. How can students present their projects clearly and effectively?
Projects should have a clear thesis or argument that ties directly to the National History Day theme. Students should organize their information logically, use visuals or media appropriately, and ensure that the project is easy to follow and visually engaging.

9. What are the deadlines and important dates for the Hillsborough County History Fair?
Key dates include the submission deadline for projects, which is January or February, and the county-level competition date, typically February or March. Students should also be aware of any workshops, coaching sessions, or pre-competition events.

10. What happens if a project qualifies for the next level of competition?
If a project advances from the county level, students will have the opportunity to compete at the state typically held in Tallahassee in May and possibly the national levels held in Washington, DC over summer break. They will need to revise and improve their project based on judges' feedback to better align with the higher competition standards.