Process Paper

As part of your project you are required to write a 500-word (or fewer) process paper, describing your project and the work you have done. There are five important questions to be answered in this essay. The answers to all five questions will be put together to write your essay – each question should equal one paragraph! You will need to make sure the essay has transitions from one paragraph to another so your paragraphs should flow as one piece of writing. The process paper must not include quotes, images, or captions.

Question 1: How did you choose your topic and how does it relate to the annual theme? 

This paragraph should explain how you chose your topic. In the paragraph, you should also explain how you think your topic relates to the annual theme. This paragraph can serve as an introduction to the rest of your essay.

Question 2: How did you conduct your research?

How did you research and develop your project? This paragraph should give an overall explanation of the work you have done – gone to the library, used the Internet, gone to museums, made changes, etc.

Question 3: How did you create your project?

This paragraph should explain the process behind your project creation. How did you design your exhibition? Why did you decide on this layout for your website? How did you write your script? etc. In this paragraph you can talk about anything you found interesting about creating your project.

Question 4: What is your historical argument?

This paragraph should include your thesis. This paragraph should go into detail explaining the evidence you found that either proves or disproves your thesis statement. 

Question 5: In what ways is your topic significant in history?

What is the importance of your topic today? How has your topic changed history or life today? This paragraph should be in detail. In this paragraph, you are analyzing why your topic is important – giving specific details and examples.

Writing the Process Paper. National History Day, 2021.