Science Fair Research Plan

Requirements 3-5 pages, typed, double-spaced Word document emailed to Mr. K Due November 12th

Research Plan Organization Sections: Statement of Problem/ Question Background Research Hypothesis Bibliography

First Page Name Grade School Title of Project Statement of question Begin background research

Statement of Question Good questions: Show cause and effect relationships Include two variables : independent (the change you control) and dependent (what you are observing or measuring for possible change) Can be tested Are specific Avoid “yes” and “no” or opinion questions

Ways to Begin Good Questions “What is the relationship between…” “What is the effect of…” Examples: “What is the effect of magnetism on the growth of plants?” “What is the relationship between land slope and erosion?”

Background Research 2-3 pages Reminders: Stay organized! As you research, keep everything in a folder or binder. Use a variety of resources – not web only! Consider related topics to broaden your research base.

Hypothesis A summary of your project idea and what you hope to demonstrate or prove Your expected results based on your research so far Good hypotheses answer the question and provide a reason why: “If….then…because…”

Bibliography A “works cited” page Goal: at least five sources All tables, facts, statements, quotes from any source must be cited correctly in your paper. See example page for more on in-text citations and bibliography sources.