1. Science Fair Information
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2. What is the Purpose of a Science Fair?
Problem Solving
Critical Thinking
Students use the scientific method to make predictions, then experiment to collect and record qualitative and quantitative data observations.
Students compare, contrast and analyze their data citing the evidence that justifies their claims, explanations and conclusions.

3. Science Fair Categories
Physical Science - the science of matter and energy and their interactions
Earth and Environmental Science - any of the sciences that deal with the earth and the study of the environment
Life Science - any of the branches of natural science dealing with the structure and behavior of living organisms
Engineering- combines mathematics, science and technology in order to produce creative solutions to real world problems
Behavioral & Social Science - systematic analysis and investigations of human and other animal behavior

4. What is a good idea for my science project?
This is the first thing you start thinking about when you hear “Science Fair.”
Before you get started, you need to know the difference between an experiment and a demonstration.

5. Science Experiments vs. Demonstrations
An experiment tests at least 2 different materials
Example:
In which type of soil will a bean plant grow best?
A demonstration does not test different materials
Examples:
Making a volcano
Creating an electrical circuit

6. What Does an Experiment Have?
Variable
Constant(s)
Everything else in the experiment needs to stay the same or “constant”
This is important, so that you can make accurate conclusions
The material that you change, or are testing, is your variable
It is the ONLY thing that “varies” or changes

7. You can turn a demonstration in to an experiment!
turned into an experiment
A demonstration…
If you wanted to create an electrical circuit, you could change it into an experiment by…
Testing different types of materials or metals for the electricity to flow through. Or you could test different types of batteries.

8. Trials
All science experiments should be repeated at least 3 times in order to minimize the impact of mistakes and maximize the validity of the test.
Each trial should be performed in exactly the same manner and compare the same independent variable.

9. Experimental Design Approval Forms
All projects must be approved by the classroom teacher
Experimental Design Approval forms will help keep the student on pace.

10. Parts of the Scientific Process
Science fair boards are NOT part of the classroom presentation.
Students can submit a mini board on a 12” x 18” sheet of paper or simply the pages for each element of the scientific process.
These can be typed on the computer (Powerpoint slides or Word Document) or hand written on lined paper.

11. Science Fair Topics
Here are some resources you can use when choosing your science fair topic and project:

12. Science Fair Rules – for Classroom Science Fair
The use of live animals is discouraged but may be approved by the science fair coordinator.
Only the student conducting the experiment may be shown in any photographs. All others must have a signed photo release form. (If your child makes it to the district science fair, these forms will need to be filled out.)
Students WILL NOT BE ALLOWED to bring any models or items used during their experiment to display.

13. What Are Judges Looking For?
Be confident
Be original
Be clear
Understand your project
Put time and effort
Be able to answer judges questions
Page 8 of Science Fair Information Packet

14. Important Dates
Projects due: Teachers will give a timeline. All in-class presentations will begin September 18th
Campus Science Fair: Students who are chosen by their teacher to advance will be given this information
District Science Fair (1st place campus winners will advance)
Saturday, November 3, 2018
Pebble Hills HS

15. Campus Science Fair Coordinator’s Contact Information
Campus Coordinator - Meredith Rodriguez