Elementary Science Fair Projects The Steps for a Successful Science Fair Project

The Scientific Method  You should always follow the steps of the scientific method when doing a science project to be successful.

Step 1: Select a Topic  What are my interests?  What would I like to learn about?  Do I have a question about something?  Where to look for topics? Science Fair books Internet Teacher  Does my project meet the rule requirements?

Step 2 Identify the Question  This is a sentence or question about the problem.  Example: What type of container will keep my soda cooler longer?  Or I would like to compare the temperature of a glass bottle of soda to a can of soda.

Check with Mom and Dad  Do we have the needed materials for the project or know where to purchase or borrow?  Is it too expensive?  Do we have a timeline for the experiment to be done on time?  Can we meet the deadlines of the teacher?

Data/Project Log - REQUIRED  The log starts on the date you select and it is approved by the teacher  Each new entry must be dated  This log is HANDWRITTEN – not typed  ALL observations and measurements are to be recorded  Remember all measurements are metric

Step 3 Collect Background Information RESEARCH about Project Media Center Minimum of 3 references BOOKS: Encyclopedias Topic Books Magazines/Newspapers Science Book INTERNET: Websites Search by Topic CD ROM: Grolier Compton

Research Notebook - REQUIRED  Must be written in your own words. Do not just print the pages from the computer. –Research your topic in books and online –Make notes as you do the research –Paraphrase what you read in your OWN words –Research paper may be typed or handwritten –You are to have a minimum of three sources –Must list your sources in the bibliography in the correct format

Step 4 Form a Hypothesis  A hypothesis is a statement of what you believe will happen in the experiment. This statement is based on the research you have done.  Do not start with “I think.” Examples: “The can will keep the soda cooler longer than the plastic or glass bottle.” OR “If soda is placed in can, then the soda will stay cooler longer than in plastic or glass.”

Step 5 Design an Experiment  Materials List: All materials needed to conduct the experiment: Paper Pencil Ruler Measuring cup Etc.  Procedure: The procedure is a step by step set of directions on how to do the experiment. Remember to use are metrics. Step 1 – gather all materials Step 2 – explain how to set up experiment Etc.

Step 6 During Experiment During the Experiment Observe: Watch Look Record: Notes Journal/Log Results Analyze Data: What have I learned from the results?

Step 7 Repeat the Experiment  The experiment is to be repeated at least 3 times.  This is done in order to prove the results as true.

Step 8 Drawing A Conclusion  This is a sentence or sentences that state what did happen during the experiment. What did you learn from the experiment?  Example: The can kept the soda cooler longer than the glass bottle.

Step 9 Application  What could the results be used for?  How could I use the knowledge I have gained from the experiment?  How will I use what I have learned?  How could others use the information I have gained from the experiment?

The Display Board Title/ Question Graphs Charts Pictures Hypothesis Procedure *Abstract Optional Data/ Results Conclusion Application Notebook and Log Required

Websites 1) Science Fair Center 2) Science Fair Center for nonscientist parents – 3) What Makes a Good Science Fair Project? 4) Discovery School.com 5) Elementary Projects (Grades 4 - 6) - 6) Science Projects ) IPL – Science Fair Resource Guide - 8) Successful Science Fair Projects - 9) Science Fair Prep ) Steps To Prepare A Science Fair Project(Cyber Fair) ) Science Fair Ideas – USGS – 12) Agricultural Ideas for Science Fair Projects ) Lycos Search ) Science Fair Resource Center ) Science Fair Links -

Good Luck You are able to be successful!