How to Do a Science Project Board

Even with the best science fair experiment, it is important to display your information clearly and attractively.

Your science project board is the first impression that people will have of your project when they enter the science fair. It is important to make sure that your board clearly conveys all of the information about your science project as well as looks professional and organized. Just like every science fair project is different, every science project board is different. Careful design and construction is essential for building a high-quality science project board.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Pen
• Computer and printer
• Scissors
• Tri-fold board
• Glue stick
• Construction paper

Instructions

1. Write different sections of your experiment at the top of separate pieces of paper. Sections may include any of the following: Abstract, Question, Background Research, Hypothesis, Purpose, Variables, Materials, Procedure, Data, Observations, Conclusion, Discussion, Acknowledgments and Bibliography.

2. Write out the information that should go with each section, and revise it thoroughly.

3. Type up each section in 16-point font. Title each section -- e.g., Abstract -- in a larger font. Print out each section after proofreading it well.

4. Cut out each typed section so that there is a very small border of white around it.

5. Lay the sections on your tri-fold board to see how they will all fit. If possible, reserve the center of your tri-fold board for the most interesting or eye-catching part of your project -- e.g., a colorful data chart, a picture of your experiment, a startling conclusion. Put the sections in order from left to right as much as possible and leave some space between sections.

6. Cut out a backing for each section from construction paper. The backing should be slightly taller and wider than the section so that it acts as a border.

7. Glue the sections to their backings and the backings to the appropriate locations on the science project board.

Tips & Warnings

• You can print out your sections on matte card stock for a more professional look.

• Make sure to read the rules for your specific science fair thoroughly. Rules can differ from one fair to another.

• Do not use liquid glue to stick the sections to your board, as it can cause wrinkles to form in the paper.

References

• Science Buddies: Science Fair Project Display Board
• Crystal Clear Science Fair Projects: Science Project Displays
• Steve Spangler Science: Science Fair Display Tips