Step-by-Step for Advanced Level Science Projects
Advanced level science projects are an excellent learning tool, providing you with a strong introduction to science experimentation and the scientific method, and possibly opening up pathways through which you can connect with science professionals. To ensure the greatest chances of potential success, map out a game plan before you start working on your project, and avoid skimping on any of the necessary steps.
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Instructions
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Identify the area of science in which you would like to complete a project. Then, do some research, reading recent articles in the news along with journal articles, to locate specific foci of your research interests.
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Consult with science professionals, such as local professors or industry professionals, who are well-versed and work in your area of interest. They may be able to suggest specific projects for you to work on, perhaps mentor you as you work on your project or put you in contact with other experts who are able to assist you.
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Clarify your experimental question, as well as your hypothesis. Your experimental question is your entire reason to carry out the experiment--in other words, what you are trying to prove or disprove? Your hypothesis is the specific position that you take on the matter. For instance, if you want to determine whether a specific bacteria will thrive in an acidic solution, then you would hypothesize that the bacteria either does or does not thrive in the solution.
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Come up with an experiment that will enable you to test your hypothesis. Write out all the steps involved, as well as the materials required. Show both to your mentor, who can either confirm that you are on the right track or suggest ways to improve your experiment.
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Run your experiment. Take detailed notes on the results.
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Organize your data into graphs and charts. Graphs may be particularly useful as a means of displaying trends in data. Consult your mentor for advice on how to present the specific data that you gather.
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Draw a conclusion as to whether or not your hypothesis was correct, based on the data that you gathered.
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Create a strong presentation for your research. Depending on the format that your science fair requires, you can either use a computerized presentation program, or you can create a poster. Your presentation should have sections detailing the experimental question, hypothesis, materials and methods, data results, discussion of results and conclusion.
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Present your research to your mentor and to family and friends, to get valuable feedback about your presentation before you enter science competitions.
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