Science Fair Project What do I do?

Where do I start? Use the Big 6 -a step by step process of gathering and presenting information.

Step 1: Task Definition First, you must decide what Science Fair project you want to complete. Think about something you want to know more about... Projects where you have a journal or collect data do very well! Discoveryschool.com

Step 2: Information Seeking Stratgies Decide where you can look for help or ideas. You have many resources available: books, magazines, and the Internet.

Step 3: Location and Access Who can help you? Where can you look? Books – Be sure and use the Table of Contents and Index. www.campaign.umn.edu/priorities

Step 4: Use of Information Many of you will find an experiment to follow step by step. Be sure you use the Scientific Method.

Scientific Method Question-This is your objective or purpose Hypothesis-What you think will happen Materials-Keep a list Procedure- a step by step list of what you did, include observations (chart, pictures) Results-What happened? Conclusion-Was your hypothesis right or wrong? What did you find out?

Step 5: Synthesis Synthesis is taking what you have learned and putting the information together. You will create a project board. Be sure and read the guidelines. Prepare Title and headers for each section of your board. Projects should be limited to a height of 36 inches, a width of 36 inches, and a depth of 18 inches.

Remember these Important guidelines: The display of anything that could be hazardous to the public or the facility is prohibited. This includes, but is not limited to, the following: a. Live or dead animals may not be displayed. b. No animal or animal parts may be displayed with the exception of hair, teeth, nails and feathers. c. No hazardous chemicals may be displayed. d. Liquids, including water, must be contained. e. Containers of commercial products that are displayed must be empty: food products, cleaning products, etc. f. No open flames will be permitted. g. No extension cords will be provided. h. No cultures of mold or bacteria may be displayed. i. No food may be displayed. j. Glass containers and most glass equipment should be avoided and may be restricted.

Step 6: Evaluation Before you turn in your project you should: Proofread! Check grammar and spelling! Be sure you have included all steps in the Scientific Method! Read over guidelines carefully. These have been in the Gazette and e-mailed home. Evaluate yourself…are you proud of your project?

Practice Are you going to have your project judged? Practice telling about your project and what you learned. The judges will ask you questions!

Other helpful hints: Get a project and get started! Look at a calendar and mark the due date… Set up-March 9th (after-school) Judging- March 10th (during the day) WHAT will be going on before then? DON’T wait until the last minute…a science fair project takes time!

Start today! Gather needed materials. Project board (stores have these for purchase) Markers Scissors Glue What else do you need?

GOOD LUCK!!