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Step 1
Know and understand the rules. Before you begin your project, review the rules. Read the list of things you need to know. Ask the teacher for help with items you do not understand. Upon completion of your science project, review the rules once more to be sure you have followed them completely.
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Step 2
Choose your topic. Pick a topic that deals with an area of science that interests you. If you need inspiration for choosing a topic, browse through magazines, books, internet sites,etc. Make a list of topics that interest you. Narrow the topics down to your favorite idea.
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Step 3
Time to do the research. Using resources through your local library or the internet, find everything you can on your chosen topic. Take detailed notes. Keep a record of resources you use for your bibliography.
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Step 4
Develop a question about your topic that you would like to investigate further. Form a hypothesis to test your question.
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Step 5
Design an experiment to try and answer your question and test your hypothesis. Keep detailed notes and explain exactly what you need to complete the experiment. Include a materials list, equipment, and the steps needed. Remember to design your experiment to be completed within the science fair rules and the alloted time.
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Step 6
Using a calendar identify important dates and deadlines. Allow ample time to complete your experiment and collect the data. Remember to leave time to write your report and complete a nice display.
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Step 7
Conduct the experiment. Keep very detailed notes and take as many photos as possible. Note dates and times if possible. Remember to change only one variable at a time during the experiment and incude at least five or more test subjects. Note any changes you may have.
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Step 8
Examine your results. Use a graph, table, or chart to show your results. Organize your findings.
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Step 9
Draw the conclusion of your experiment. Answer the following questions: Which variables are important? Did you collect enough data? Did you support your hypothesis? Remember an experiment is done to prove or disprove a hypothesis.
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Step 10
Prepare a written report on what you have learned and how you have learned about your topic. Think about what you want to say and complete a rough draft before the final copy. A good report include the following: title, acknowledgements of those who helped, introduction to your topic, discussion of the problem/question, materials list, step-by-step process, observation and results, conclusions, and bibiliography. Type your final report neatly and be sure to use proper grammar and correct spelling.
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Step 11
Design your display. Neatness, clarity and organization are keys to a successful display. Your display materials need not be expensive. You will need some type of free standing backboard such as poster board, fabric on a frame, cardboard, foam board, plywood, etc. The backboard must be within the measurements specified in the rules.
Your display may include whatever objects that are not excluded by the rules to show what you have learned. Remember to include your project title, question, hypothesis, report, list of materials, procedure, observations, and conclusions. Have fun and be creative! -
Step 12
Prepare for judging. It is natural to be a little nervous about judging but remember the judges aren't there to embarrass or trick you. They are interested in you and what you have discovered through your science project. Be plesant and courteous to the judges and show them you are proud of the work you have accomplished!
Comments
turtledove said
on 9/18/2009 I've overseen quite a few science projects. :-) They're always fun and memorable. 5*