2. Agenda We will share updates to this year’s STEM Fair.
We will discuss the steps students are expected to complete for this year’s fair.
We will share your role in the STEM process.

3. Updates for STEM Fair
All 4th and 5th graders are encouraged to complete the project (independent, partner, or group)
No longer required by all students
Projects will be used as evidence towards Advanced Academics placement for science in middle school.
All projects are due to school by Monday,
April 11th
* projects will be judged the week of the 11th
instead of the evening of the fair
Previously all students were required to complete STEM project, now it is optional. Project completion will be used as evidence for Advanced Academics placement in science. Students may work alone or in groups of no more than 3. If they commit to group work, must stay with group for entire project. Judging and interviews will occur the week of the 11th instead of the night of the fair. Awards will be given on night of the fair

4. Updates for STEM Fair April 19th STEM Fair/ Book Fair Night
*Open House to see projects on display in gym and view book fair
*Followed by STEM activities for each grade with classroom teachers

5. What Have We Done So Far?
Students had experience with a sample mini project in school to help them as they complete an independent project at home. Students followed all steps of the Scientific Method and kept a mini log book of the process.
Students were given a list of due dates for each part of the project. The due dates are designed to help keep the students on track-they are not set in stone except the final due date.
Students received packet with guidelines, regulations, explanations, backboard display, sample interview questions, and approval sheet.
Check out this web site:
Please help students complete and sign approval sheet and return to school.

6. Purpose of STEM Fair
Allows students to work through the Scientific Method in order to answer a testable question or try to solve a problem.
Scientific Method
Question (Purpose) Experiment
Research Analysis (Evidence)
Hypothesis (Claim) - Conclusion (Reasoning)

7. Identifying a Question
Good science investigations begin with a testable question. This question often asks “what if,” “how,” or “what effect something will have.” The question should be one that can lead to an experiment, which will yield either quantitative or qualitative data—rather than simply researching a question and creating a model.

8. Writing a Research Report
After choosing a question, students should be guided to read a variety of books and articles about the topic. Students should use a minimum of 3 sources to write the report. These sources should be listed in a simple bibliography.
The research report should not answer the STEM fair question.
could be a paragraph or page in length
Purpose is to help students make an informed hypothesis

9. Keeping a Log Book
Students use a marble notebook or create a notebook to record their investigation following the Scientific Method –log books do not have to look perfect. They should include edits and additions in the logbook.
Purpose: Their project question
Hypothesis: Students predict the outcome based on their research. Students should not worry whether their hypothesis is right or wrong, it provides guidance to develop the investigation

10. Keeping a Log Book
Materials: Students create a list of materials used in specific amounts and sizes in the metric system.
Procedure: Students develop a list of numbered steps they follow to complete their experiment.

11. Keeping a Log Book
There are two types of projects: experimental and observational
If students are doing an experimental project, they need to identify the:
independent v. (one factor that is changed)
dependent v. (depends on independent v.)
controlled variables (remains constant)

12. Conduct the Experiment
If time permits students should conduct more than one trial in order to collect more reliable data. (5 or more trials are recommended)

13. Collecting Results
The results include measurements taken as well as observations.
Photos can be taken and placed on backboard
Record results in a data table
Create a bar graph or line graph using the averaged data from the table
Write a paragraph explaining the information from the graph. (written results)

14. Conclusion Should be a paragraph
Begin by stating if hypothesis was supported or not supported by the experiment
Answer the original question
Support with details and data from investigation
Conclude with additional questions or further investigations that could be conducted in the future.

15. Construct Backboard

16. Judging
A checklist with the judging criteria was provided in student packet.
Students received the guidelines and regulations in project packet. Please follow them to avoid being disqualified.
1st place winners in 4th and 5th grade will move on to the Baltimore County competition on Saturday, May 14th.

17. Role of the Parent Parents are encouraged to: Be supportive
Review student packet with your child
Sign the approval form
Acquire a logbook (marble notebook)
Supply necessary materials
Supervise to ensure safety
Provide transportation
Proofread the research report
Monitor progress and timelines

18. Thank you for coming to support your child’s STEM education!

19. Questions