Hooked on Science | Science Fair 101

Science Fair, two words that terrify educators, students, and parents. If your child or school is participating in the science fair, this year, don’t panic! If the right steps are taken your child and school could take home the big prize.

Students are responsible for designing and executing the entire science fair project. Parents should not do the science fair project for their child. Encourage students to think outside of the box when it comes to choosing a science fair project, which can be the hardest part. Students should select a topic they find interesting. If you are having trouble finding the perfect science fair topic, here are a few ideas.

How do laws/policies on deer affect deer populations?
What conditions impact productivity while doing homework?
How does photo-editing affect perception?
How does weather affect mood?
How does temperature affect the brewing of tea?
Which detergent is best for removing stains?
Which paper towel absorbs the fastest?
What is the best way to remove wrinkles from fabric?
How does temperature impact the activity of ants?
How does smell affect taste?

The science fair project should be an experiment and not a demonstration. Students should start by asking a question and then use the scientific method to get an answer. The scientific method is a step-by-step process used to ask and answer scientific questions. Although the scientific method can be traced back to the Greeks and even to ancient artisans, Galileo is known as the father of "The Scientific Method.”

STEP 1 | ASK A QUESTION
Good scientific questions are well defined and measurable.
STEP 2 | FORM A HYPOTHESIS
A hypothesis is an educated guess, which can be tested through experimentation.
STEP 3 | DESIGN AND PERFORM AN EXPERIMENT
Good experiments include variables, which prove your hypothesis correct or in correct.
STEP 4 | ANALYZE THE RESULTS
Gather and analyze all data, or information, while performing your experiment, to prove your hypothesis correct or incorrect.
STEP 5 | COMMUNICATE THE RESULTS
Clearly communicate your results.

From creativity to how memorable a presentation or display might be, judges will use a variety of criteria to judge science fair projects. Judges might ask these questions…

Did the student think like a scientist?
Is the science fair topic creative?
Did the student use the scientific method?
Was the student’s project presented and displayed professionally?
Was the presentation and display memorable?

Planning is key! An award-winning science fair project is not created overnight. Realize ahead of time that it takes patience and time when doing these projects.

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