This year's theme is Debate and Diplomacy in History. Students will analyze the roles of historical figures and events around issues such as the environment, health, science, economics, the arts, sports and politics. Topics studied include the Lincoln Douglas debates, Camp David Peace Accords, Title IX, Hetch Hetchy Valley, Salem Witch Trials, affirmative action, Cuban Missile Crisis, animal cloning, suffrage and the atomic bomb.
Between 80-100 FPU students, faculty and staff will be involved in the event. Projects will be judged on historical accuracy, adherence to rules and quality of presentation. Winners will advance to the state competition in San Jose on April 28.
The public is invited to attend performances and documentaries from 9:10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and view exhibits from 1:00 to 2:00 p.m. at several locations at FPU. Awards ceremonies will be in the Special Event Center from 2:00-2:45 p.m. for grades four and five and from 3:30-4:30 p.m. for the junior and senior divisions.
For more information, contact Mary Janzen, history/social science consultant, or Lisa Benham, ELA/HSS coordinator, at the Fresno County Office of Education, 265-3073.