Why is the science fair important?

The science fair is conducted for many reasons:

• To focus attention on scientific experiences
• To stimulate interest in scientific investigation beyond routine class work.
• To recognize and commend youthful scientific talent
• To offer an opportunity to display, exhibit, and present scientific discoveries
• To stimulate public interest in the scientific abilities of students.

Think like a scientist!

A science fair project is an exciting and meaningful learning experience for each child. Not only can children enter and compete for prizes, trophies, and awards, but more importantly children have an opportunity to apply the many skills they are learning in the various academic subjects.

• Thinking Skills – This is perhaps the most important product of a science fair project. Students put much time, effort, and thought into a project. They see the result of their thinking in the form of a project. They have developed or utilized problem-solving skills.
• Organizational Skills – Another important skill that students utilize when preparing a project is organization. Students will need the support and advice from teachers and parents, but this is an opportunity to plan, prepare, and organize a project from start to finish. Science – Children have an opportunity to investigate a myriad of topics of interest to them in science. They apply the skills of scientific inquiry when investigating their topics. Students learn to investigate, experiment, and discover the many wonders of science.
• Language Arts – Children use many language arts skills when preparing a project. They must read for information to better understand their topics. Children utilize library skills and study skills when they research the projects.
• Writing - is also an integral part of each science fair project. Students use these skills when displaying their projects, writing for information from organizations or other sources, and/or writing a paper to accompany the projects.
• Oral language - skills are also tapped when students interview professionals for assistance and/or seek help from parents or teachers.
• Math – Measurement is an essential component of science projects. Students have opportunities to apply the use of metric measurement and organize data using tables and graphs in meaningful activities. Social Studies – Many topics that students investigate are related to this curriculum. Mapping is a skill that may be used when preparing a project.
• Art – The display of a project is almost as important as the project itself. Children get a chance to design their displays to best enhance their projects.

Wait... what is a science fair project?

A Successful Science Project Asks the Following Question...

WHAT PROBLEMS COULD YOU SOLVE?

• Represents your work--not that of an expert or your parents
• Indicates an understanding of the science area chosen
• Shows careful planning that would eliminate a “rush” project
• Has a portfolio showing a complete record of all your completed work
• Has a simple, well-stated title posting a scientific question
• Has photographs, charts, pictures, graphs, etc., that might be necessary to explain your work
• Has accurate, valid, and correct observations
• Tells a complete story (Problem and Solution)
• Is original in approach and presentation
• Is self-explanatory
• Is attractive and organized

• Too expensive
• Only a report
• A chore
• Something done by your parents or teachers