Level or Effort

What Works:

What Doesn't Work:

Minimal but perfectly acceptable

Verbal citation of period source with brief explanation of presentation choices: what you are an are not creating and why not (time, etc.)

No explanation of choices. Descriptions of period practice with no mention of sources. Obviously not period work

Pretty Easy

Copies from book(s), applicable parts highlighted. Enough copies for all judges.

Book(s) or copies of pages from unknown book(s), nothing highlighted. Not enough copies.

Some Effort

Copies from book(s), applicable parts highlighted, notes in margin or on another paper saying how highlighted parts support presenter's choices (complete sentences not necessary).

Obscure highlighted parts which may even contradict presentation choices (I've seen this - no kidding). Sources which support piece but don't prove it period.

Basic Amount for scoring high points on doc-umentation

Very short paper (1 page or less) quoting from book(s) including bibliographical citation(s), copies used only for images, clearly labeled as to what aspect of piece they demonstrate.

Short paper which makes claims but which doesn't quote or cite sources for support. Snowstorm of copies of text passages which could have been summarized.

Likely to Score High Points

Paper of any length (few copies) quoting as above, with big section headings along with enough copies of cover sheet for all judges, outlining paper in brief with notes directing reader to supporting sections of paper

Long paper with no road signs, which the judges can't possibly read in the short time available., or which they don't even get to see because there aren't enough copies.

Very Likely to Score High Points

Paper as above, which includes sections on:
1) historical background
2) period example, and
3) presenter's choices about presenting - you process how you interact with history.

Excellent Preparation for competitions (as well as personally inspiring learning experience)

Paper as above, with copies of period work including notes on how each justifies aspects of piece as well as an honest listing of departures from period techniques and why (cost, modern equivalents, etc.)

Examples of period work with no indication as to what aspect of the piece they support. Major aspects left out, (i.e. color choice but not fabric). Hoping that departures from period won't be noticed.

Highest level Necessary for Competitions

Paper as above with primary reliance on original source material (Sources written or painted, etc. during the period you are studying)

Having all that hard work be less valuable because you depended on mistaken impressions of secondary sources (like prudish Victorians.)

Above and Beyond - You've fallen in love with the topic

Paper as above, suitable for publication in the TI or CA or which makes an original scholarly contribution to the field.

Writing a great article that is so technical and obscure or lengthy that no one will want to read it.