1. Asking Questions and Forming Hypotheses

October 2014

Mrs. A. Williams

All Science Teachers Science Fair Parent Letter

Dear Students and Parents:

It’s time to start working on Friendship Academy of Engineering and Technology’s Science Fair! Enclosed is a schedule outlining due dates and important information regarding your child’s project. Ample time has been scheduled and work has been spread out, so students can complete the work at a comfortable pace.

This is a major project and will represent a significant portion of your child’s grade for the next grading period(s). The primary objective of this project is to have students approach a problem scientifically. This includes: 1. Asking questions and forming hypotheses 2. Creating experiments to test those hypotheses 3. Organizing data and drawing conclusions 4. Writing about scientific research The project must be experimental in nature as opposed to research oriented. In other words, students must do a test, survey, or experiment to determine the answer to their question instead of just looking it up in a book. We encourage students to pick topics that they are genuinely interested in, since they will be working on these projects for the next several months. Project guidelines state that all work must be done by the students; however, assistance may be provided by teachers, parents, etc. It is very difficult to work alone without the exchange of ideas, so we encourage you to brainstorm with your child on different ideas and possible topics your child may want to pursue. Please take a moment to review all the attachments with your child in order to generate topic ideas. Supplies that your child will need up front are: a 3 ring binder, a composition book for notes, and note cards for the oral report. Eventually, s/he will need a display board. All of these items except the display board can be purchased from our school store for actual money or Grizzly Bucks. I am looking forward to working with you to make this a valuable learning experience for your child. I appreciate your support on this important project. As acknowledgement and part of your child’s homework, please sign, date, and return the bottom portion of this letter by October 31, 2014..

Sincerely,

------Homework Assignment DUE Friday, October 31st ______, (Printed Name of Child) and I have reviewed the Science Fair information and calendar, and we understand the requirements for a successful Science Fair Project.

2 – Science Fair ______Parent Signature Student Signature

Due Dates Points Task

10/31/2014 50 Return Parent Letter – Students must return the Parent letter which indicates that the student and parent/guardian have reviewed and understand the Science Fair requirements and deadlines. 10/31/2014 100 Choose a Topic and Create a Testable Question Students must have decided on their topic, developed their testable question, formulated their hypothesis and turn in their Project Request Form for teacher approval. 11/14/2014 150 Science Project Proposal – Students must complete the project proposal form. The proposal form requires students to come up with a testable question and their plan to carry-out testing of their hypothesis. 11/21/2014 500 Background Research – This is a five topic research paper (must include a bibliography) and is part of your final project paper. Please follow the format outlined in the template. You will be working on this part in your English class. A minimum of 3 books are required in addition to whatever else you use. 11/26/2014 100 Materials and Procedures – Provide a list of your materials and your procedures 12/15/2014 250 Experiment Details and Materials and Procedures – Conduct your experiment and repeat several times (10) and document your procedures and findings/results. These are two important sections of your final science project paper. Be sure your procedures are very detailed!

1/5/2015 500 Data Tables and Graphical Representation of Data – You will turn in the data you collected from 10 or more trials (in the form of a table) and at least one graph showing the best values. If you THINK you will be absent on Friday, 1/05/15, turn in your data table and graph early! 1/19/2015 500 Data Analysis and Abstract – These are two more sections that need to be graded and feedback provided before your final project is due. Only print these sections. Staple together and make sure your name is on the front. There are more required sections that have not been reviewed. See your teacher afterschool if you would like your teacher to look at them and provide feedback. Otherwise, these other sections will only be due in the final project notebook. 2/13/2015 3000 Final Project Display and Project Notebook – On Friday, February 13, 2015 , bring your display and completed project notebook to your teacher's room BEFORE school begins. IF it rains: use a clean garbage bag to help keep it dry. All projects MUST be submitted by Friday, January 26th. Early submissions are accepted and will receive 100 points as extra credit. NO LATE PROJECTS WILL BE ACCEPTED. If you THINK you will be absent on 2/15/15, turn in your science project EARLY!!! 2/18/2015 100 Oral Report – On Wednesday, February 18, 2015, be prepared to present your project. You must review your research so that you can speak intelligently about your project. Science Fair To Be Determined (TBD)

Morgan State To Be Determined (TBD) Science Fair **Invitation Only**

3 – Science Fair *Points apply to the Homework/Classwork Category*

4 – Science Fair DEFINITIONS

Word Definition

Hypothesis: The hypothesis is an "educated guess," formed as a statement that you propose to be the answer to the research question. An educated guess is based on some prior knowledge... (If…, then…) Repeated Trials: the number of experimental repetitions, objects, or organisms tested at each level of the independent variable. Variables: The experiment will contain an element or elements that do not change (called controlled variables or dependent variables) and elements that will change (called manipulated variables or independent variables). Control: The control is a particular sample that is treated the same as all the rest of the samples except that it is not exposed to manipulated variables. Observation When you interact with your experiment, you are using your senses to observe. Does it have a smell; make a noise have color, etc.? Collect Data As you observe your experiment, you will need to record the progress of your experiment. Data can be whatever you observe about your experiment that may or may not change during the time of the experimentation. Examples of data are values in pH, temperature, a measurement of growth, color, distance, etc. Journal All scientists keep a record of their observations in some form of a journal. The journal will begin with the date and time the experimenter collects the data. Sometimes data will include environmental values such as humidity, temperature, etc. Entries must be written clearly and with detail of description so that another scientist can read the journal, simulate the conditions of the experiment, and repeat the experiment exactly. Data: The data are the values written down as the experiment progresses. Examples of data entry on measuring plant growth:

11/15/1 Control 7.4 mm 4 Plant 16.2 Test Plant mm 11/22/1 Control 7.8 mm 4 Plant 15.9 Test Plant mm

5 – Science Fair Charts & Graphs When at all possible, illustrations of data are advisable. They create a professional appearance and convey a great deal of information. Examples include: Bar Graph, Pie Chart, X & Y axis Graph, Histogram, etc. Materials: List all supplies and equipment. Example: 250 ml. glass beaker 1 straw 150 ml. Lime Water Procedure The procedure is a somewhat detailed, step - by - step description of how you conducted your experiment. Example: "After 1 minute, I stirred in the baking soda and timed the reaction to be 45 seconds." Results: The results are usually in the form of a statement that explains or interprets the data. You do not go into any detail or explanations here. You simply say in words what your data is telling you. Example: "Test Plant 3 showed little difference in growth rate as compared to the Control Plant." Conclusion The conclusion is a summary of the research and the results of the experiment. This is where you answer your research question. You make a statement of whether your data supported your hypothesis or not. You may have data that supported part of your hypothesis and not another part. You may also have data that did not support your hypothesis at all. In this case, you may explain why the results were different. Resources: One of the most important things for a student to do is recognize the people and resources used in developing and conducting the project. Name the people who offered knowledge or helped, and list the web sites, retail stores, magazines, books, computer programs, etc. that were used as sources of information or supplies. Research Question: The research question is the single most important part of the scientific method. Every part of your project is done to answer this question. The research question is sometimes formed as a statement and is called the "Problem" or "Problem Statement."

6 – Science Fair Step 1: Selecting the Topic

Select a topic to investigate. When selecting a topic, it is important to select a specific topic. For example, using the general topic “Plants,” the question immediately arises “What about plants?” The specific topic “Growing Plants in Different Soils” is a better choice with which to use the scientific progress. The selection of two or three topics might be desirable at first since occasionally a topic is about your experience level or is not amenable to investigation. Step 2: Writing the Problem Statement

Select a topic of interest and determine a cause –effect relationship that lends itself to experimental research. Most experiments can fit into a cause-effect relationship; however, sometimes it is not possible to plug the topic into a cause-effect problem statement. In this instance another question can be written. The problem statement should include an investigation that is testable. To provide the direction for research, the following are sample problem statements that lead to the use of the scientific method and some examples that have been used successfully in science fair projects. Suggested Problem Statements that Lead to a Hypothesis

What is the effect of on ? temperature the feeding habits of goldfish household powders the cohesion of molecules magnetism different materials age the germination of radish seeds household liquids an indicator of acids/bases water absorbency of paper towels How do/does affect ? temperature crystal growth the color of an object the absorption of solar energy the weight of a bob the period of a pendulum To what extent do/does affect ? the number of batteries an electromagnet’s strength light the formation of mold exercise the heartbeat rate

7 – Science Fair Examples of Problem Statements 1. How does the color of light affect the growth of plants? 2. How does acid rain affect leaf development? 3. How does talking to a bean plant affect their growth? 4. To what extent do different soils retain water? 5. How do different surfaces absorb the sun’s energy? 6. How does slope affect stream velocity? 7. What is the effect of household liquids and powders on the indicator bromothymol blue (BTB)? 8. How do different fabrics affect heat loss from an object? 9. How does the number of batteries and the way they are connected affect the strength of an electromagnet?

Step 3: Researching the Topic

The primary purpose of doing research is to gain information about the topic stated in the problem statement. Answer the following questions to establish a purpose for researching general information, previous investigations, and related investigations about your topic: “What do I already know about ?” “What information do I need to complete my understanding of ?” “What have other researchers and experts said about ?”

The first step of research is to locate books and periodicals on your topic at the school or local library. You can also search the Internet for information. After locating theses resources, take notes relevant to the topic under Investigation.

You may also use resource people as sources of information. Science teachers, zoo personnel, veterinarians, environmentalists, and businessmen are just a few people who might be able to give valuable information on the topic under investigation. If a person is used as a source of information, notes should be taken or the interview might be taped.

Regardless of how you take notes or where information is obtained, make sure that you record bibliographical information. Both the bibliographical information and the notes takes are helpful in designing the investigation and in writing the research report after the investigation has been completed.

8 – Science Fair Step 4: Using Scientific Methods

Although the term scientific method is used here, scientists do not clearly define one scientific method. Rather, scientists pursue knowledge by recognizing and defining problems, formulating and testing hypotheses, making observations, and performing controlled experiments to collect data. To assist you in performing scientific research, a five- step scientific method has been provided for you to follow.

The steps of the scientific method are: 1. State the problem. 2. Write the hypothesis. 3. Design the experiment. 4. Record and analyze the data. 5. Draw conclusions.

When the topic research has been completed, you are ready to follow the remaining steps of the scientific method in order to determine an answer to the question posed in the problem statement. Once the problem statement is written, the second step of the scientific method is to formulate the hypotheses. You must develop a procedure to test the hypotheses and list the materials needed and the steps to follow. During the investigation, you should observe the results and systematically record them. From the results, you will draw a conclusion that either proves or disproves the hypothesis.

If you are a younger scientist, you may need a simplification of the steps listed in the above scientific method. To help you successfully complete a science fair research project, the following scientific method simplification has been provided.

Step 5: Writing the Hypothesis

Having developed the problem statement, the next step of the scientific method is to formulate the hypothesis. This step is much easier than it seems. The hypothesis is an educated guess of the answer to the problem statement. To state the hypothesis, change the question posed in the problem into a statement and include what is expected to happen as a result of the investigation. For example, the hypothesis for the problem statement “To what extent do the number of batteries affect the strength of an electromagnet?’’ could be “When the number of batteries is increased in an electromagnet, the strength of the electromagnet will be increased.” In another example, the hypothesis for the problem statement “What is the effect of a detergent solution on the germination of radish seed?’ could be “Application of a detergent solution to radish seeds will prevent germination of the seeds.”

9 – Science Fair Step 6: Designing the Experiment

You should have a good idea from the problem statement and hypothesis what will be done in the investigation. The next step is to list the necessary materials and gather them into one location to conduct the investigation. Remember to be careful and safety conscious when gathering and working with materials. Be aware of how the materials will hold up during the experiment.

The procedure is a step-by-step listing of each operation to be carried out in the investigation.

In any investigation only one factor should be changed, while all other factors remain the same. The factor that is changed or manipulated is called the independent variable. The independent variable has an effect on another factor, called the dependent variable. Every other factor in the experiment should be controlled so that it does not change.

Step 7: Recording Observations and Analyzing Data

Follow your procedure and perform the investigation. As you follow the procedure, data from observations should be collected and recorded in a log. Remember to use metric measurements whenever possible. Use the data to make tabulations, charts, and graphs to help with the interpretation of the observations.

Step 8: Analyzing and Drawing Conclusions

Interpret the information that has been tabulated, charted, or graphed to determine if the hypothesis was proved or disproved. Based on the results of the investigation, you accept, reject or suggest modifications to the original hypothesis.

Note that sometimes hypotheses are not supported by your investigations. This does not mean that you have failed. Rather, you were successful in investigating a hypothesis that was not supported by the investigation.

Step 9: Writing the Research Report

A report of the research should accompany the science fair exhibit. Usually a concise summary of the investigation, called an abstract, is required to be displayed with the exhibit. The abstract should have the same title as the exhibit and consist of three or four paragraphs with a total of approximately 250 words. The first paragraph should state the problem investigated and the hypothesis. The next paragraph should include the procedures followed in the investigation. The final paragraph or paragraphs should summarize the data

10 – Science Fair collected from the investigation and state conclusions based on the data collected. The abstract should be written in the third person. Avoid using the word “I” when writing the abstract.

The research report should contain

. A title page with the title of the project and your name. You probably want a catchy, clever title. Otherwise, try to make it an accurate description of the project.

. An abstract of the report

. A table of contents and, if needed, a table of figures.

. Introduction and Purpose Sometimes this section is called 'Background'. Whatever its name, this section introduces the topic of the project, notes any information already available, explains why you are interested in the project, and states the purpose of the project. If you are going to state references in your report, this is where most of the citations are likely to be, with the actual references listed at the end of the entire report in the form of a bibliography or reference section. . The Hypothesis or Question Explicitly state your hypothesis or question.

. Materials and Methods List the materials you used in your project and describe the procedure that you used in the investigation. If you have a photo or diagram of your project, this is a good place to include it.

. Data and Results Data and Results are not the same thing. Some reports will require that they be in separate sections, so make sure you understand the difference between the concepts. Data refers to the actual numbers or other information you obtained in your project. Data can be presented in tables or charts, if appropriate. The Results section is where the data is manipulated or the hypothesis is tested. Sometimes this analysis will yield tables, graphs, or charts, too. For example, a table listing the minimum concentration of salt that I can taste in water, with each line in the table being a separate test or trial, would be data. If I average the data or perform a statistical test of a null hypothesis, the information would be the results of the project.

. Conclusion The conclusion focuses on the Hypothesis or Question as it compares to the Data and Results. It states the results of the investigation and how these results relate to the problem statement and hypothesis. What was the answer to the question? A relevant question for you to answer would be “What did I find out as a result of my investigation?” Was the hypothesis supported (keep in mind a hypothesis cannot be proved, only disproved)? What did you find out from the experiment? Answer these questions first. Then, depending on your answers, you may wish to explain ways in which the project might be improved or introduce new questions that have come up as a result of the project. This section is judged not only by what you were able to conclude, but also by your recognition of areas where you could not draw valid conclusions based on your data. Also included in the conclusion are any problems that arose during the investigation and the solutions to those problems. You must indicate

11 – Science Fair which data prove or disprove the hypothesis and may indicate what further research might be needed. . A reference list as well as acknowledgement of help received in completion of the science project. Your teacher will generally provide a format to follow for the reference list.

Step 10: Project Notebook (Instructions on how to write each one of these sections are in the Notebook Template provided)

The Project Notebook should contain:

 A title page

 A Table of Contents

 An Abstract

 Background Research

 Experiment Details

 Materials and Procedures

 Challenges and Technical Issues

 Experiment Results

 Data Analysis & Discussion

 Conclusion

 Acknowledgements

 Bibliography

 Experiment Notes

Step 10: Oral Report

 Preparation – Prepare for your presentation by reviewing each part of the experiment so that you know it well. Review your research so that you can speak intelligently about your topic.

 Think – Think about the following questions:

12 – Science Fair o What were your results?

o Why did you choose this project?

o What was the hardest part (or easiest)?

o What were the one or two things you learned?

o What would you do differently next time? Why?

 Practice – Using your note cards, practice and prepare a 2-4 minute presentation

o Speak Slowly

o Explain how you tested your hypothesis

o Review your major findings

 Conclusion – Prepare a 1-2 minute conclusion and then ask if there are any questions.

Constructing the Exhibit

The science project exhibit is a visual display of the entire investigation carried out by the student. Specifications on size and materials vary, but most fairs require a free-standing, three-sided display that is no larger than 122 centimeters (48 inches) wide, 274 centimeters (108 inches) high, and 76 centimeters (30 inches) deep. The display may be made out of plywood or fiberboard hinged together or it may be as simple as folded, corrugated cardboard or reinforced poster board.

There is no one correct way to set up your board. It must, however, make sense and follow the steps of the scientific method. Remember:  If you use a title, you still need the question (or problem).  We read from left to right and from top to bottom. Groups topics that go together like question, research, and hypothesis; materials and procedures; analysis and conclusion.  Put pictures and graphs where they fit best and make the most sense.  Make sure you proofread any written work.

13 – Science Fair 14 – Science Fair Anatomy

What sorts of meals are nutritious? Can a person detect where sound is coming from without being able to see? How do we get cavities? Fingerprints, can two people have the same one? Do boys and girls have different resting pulse rates? Can you determine the sex of a person just by looking at his/her feet? Do groups of people have different blood pressure readings? Human Eye / Vision Research How a Tooth Decays

Botany

Do plants grow toward the light? Do plants grow better in water or soil?

Physical Science Crazy Crystal Creations: How to Grow the Best and the Largest Crystals Crystals come in all different shapes and sizes. However, the purest and cleanest crystals are usually also the ones that grow to be the largest in size. In this science fair project, you will compare the size and shape of crystals grown in three different temperature conditions: room temperature, in the refrigerator, and in an ice

Will chilling an onion before cutting it keep you from crying? Do all brands of diapers absorb the same amount of liquid? Does it matter what the liquid is (water as opposed to juice or... um.. urine)?

Chemistry and Biochemistry

Which Metals Conduct Heat? Show expansion and contraction of liquids by freezing and heating. Is there really iron in our cereal?

Do detergents affect plant growth?

Do Detergents Work Best In Cold or Hot Water? Do different brands of popcorn leave different amounts of unpopped kernels?

Do peanuts contain enough energy for heating water? How do you measure this energy?

Do white candles burn at a different rate than colored candles?

15 – Science Fair How do the differences in surfaces affect the adhesion of tape? What causes the milk to spoil? Which freezes faster? Water or Salt Water? Which freezes faster? Water or Sugar Water? What is the effect of sugar water on a plants growth? What Battery Last Longest? What factors affect the evaporation of water? What is the effect of sugar or salt in the evaporation of water? Compare two dishwashing liquid to see which one makes more bubbles. Does the temperature of water affect the time it takes for the water to freeze? Do different colors of light affect plants differently? Can you predict what things will glow under a black light?

What type of plastic wrap best prevents evaporation? What plastic wrap best prevents oxidation? Does the shape of an ice cube affect how quickly it melts? If you shake up different kinds or brands of soft drinks (e.g., carbonated), will they all spew the same Does the temperature of a soda affect how much it sprays?

You can refrigerate a soda, warm one in a hot water bath, shake them up, and measure how much liquid is sprayed out. How do you explain the results? Do all brands of soda spray the same amount when you shake them up? Does it matter if it's diet or regular soda? Do all brands of paper towels pick up the same amount of liquid? Compare single sheet of different brands. Soak a sheet until it is saturated, let the excess liquid drip off, squeeze the liquid from the wet paper towel into a measuring cup. Note you may need to use teaspoons to measure this liquid.

Are all potato chips equally greasy (you can crush them to get uniform samples and look at the diameter of a grease spot on brown paper)? Is greasiness different if different oils are used (e.g., peanut versus soybean)? Do the same types of mold grow on all types of bread? Does light effect the rates at which foods spoil? Do different brands of batteries (same size, new) last equally long? If a brand lasts longer than others, does this change if you change the product (e.g., running a light as opposed to running a digital camera)? Do all dishwashing detergents produce the same amount of bubbles? Clean the same number of dishes?

16 – Science Fair How permanent are permanent markers? What solvents (e.g., water, alcohol, vinegar, or detergent solution) will remove the ink? Do different brands/types of markers produce the same results? Is laundry detergent as effective if you use less than the recommended amount? More? Do all hairsprays hold equally well? Equally long? Does type of hair affect the results? How does the rate of evaporation of the crystal-growing medium affect the final size of the crystals? You can change the rate of evaporation by sealing the container (no evaporation at all if there is no air space) or by blowing a fan over the liquid or enclosing the jar of medium with a desiccant. Different places and seasons will have different humidity’s. The crystals grown in a desert may be different from those grown in a rain forest. How do crystals grown from uniodized salt compare with those grown from iodized salt?

Geology

Which rocks are harder? Test various rocks and minerals such as quartz, granite and slate. How is coal formed? Can we make it at home?

Earthworms, are they good for a garden? Are bees good for plants? Why do trees have bark? Can we tell the age of trees? Does magnetism affect the growth of plants? What makes plants grow upward? Light or Gravity? Do Plants Grow Toward Light? Germination Does the presence of detergent in water affect plant growth? How do different factors affect seed germination? Factors that you could test include the intensity, duration, or type of light, the temperature, the amount of water, the presence/absence of certain chemicals, or the presence/absence of soil. You can look at the percentage of seeds that germinate or the rate at which seeds germinate. Is a seed affected by its size? Do different size seeds have different germination rates or percentages? Does seed size affect the growth rate or final size of a plant? How does cold storage affect the germination of seeds? Factors you can control include the type of seeds, length of storage, temperature of storage, and other variables, such as light and humidity. What conditions affect the ripening of fruit? Look at ethylene and enclosing a fruit in a sealed bag, temperature, light, or nearness to other pieces or fruit.

What is the effect of salt water on a plants growth? What is the effect of vinegar on plants? What color light is best for a plants growth?

17 – Science Fair Meteorology How are weather instruments used in forecasting? How can we create a cyclone?

Physics What are the differences between bulbs in series and in parallel? What are the parts of an electric motor? How does a sailboat work? Why are there different designs? Test performance. Does the number of turns of wire in an electromagnet affect its strength? Can quarters and feathers fall at the same speed? Does the color black or white absorb light better? How can heavy objects float? Zoology Can a snail move faster on dirt or concrete? Animal prints, what information do they give us? Which animal is smarter? Examples: Goldfish or Guppy, Hamster or Gerbil, Cat or Dog. How much mass can a hungry caterpillar eat in a day? Do animals have the same drinking habits when given colored water? Are ants picky over their foods? Do ants produce acid when antagonized? Do ants react differently in the dark? Habitat Studies Are night insects attracted to lamps because of heat or light?

18 – Science Fair Name: Date:

Teacher: Due Date:

This sheet is designed to give you some ideas on where to look for information on your topic. When you prepare your research report, you will want to include some background information about your topic. There are several sources of information that are available to you. You are required to use a minimum of 3 books. Fill as many of the blanks as you can. When you are done with this sheet, turn it in on the due date. Your teacher will review it with you and you can begin collecting data.

Books, Magazines, Newspapers, Journals

Films, Filmstrips’, Videos

Specialist, Professionals, Professors

19 – Science Fair Teacher Initials

20 – Science Fair Topic Date List information that you already know about your topic.

In each section below, write a question you would like to answer through your research. Write your notes on the lines below each question. You must use at least 3 books. List each source, author, and page number or web site. 1. ?

Notes:

Source Author Page(s)

Notes:

21 – Science Fair 4. ?

Notes:

22 – Science Fair Name: Class Date

Student will prepare science fair project to display and for presentation.

PURPOSE: The purpose of this project is to

MATERIALS:

PROCEDURE:

23 – Science Fair

HYPOTHESIS :

The Project Step-by Step

24 – Science Fair CAN I DO IT?

(A Decision to be made by the Student with Teacher and/or Parent or Guardian)

Once you have found a topic (or have several possibilities) you must now decide whether you can actually complete the project in the time available. Here’s a checklist to help you decide:  Is the information that I need readily available to me?

 Where can I find the information?

 If the information is not available locally, where is it? How long will it take to get?

 Will I need to pay for my information? (Government agencies or industry may charge for their data)

 If I need special books, can I check them out of the library or must I use them there?

 Will I need professional advice? From whom? (Specifically!!)

 Are they willing to help? Will it cost anything?

 What supplies will I need?

 Can I build some of the things I need? Do I need help?

 Can I borrow some of the supplies and equipment I’ll need?

 What will my supplies cost?

 Do I have the money for my supplies and equipment?

 Can I finish in the time allowed? If not, can I break the project idea into smaller segments?

 Is there anything about the experiment my family might object to?

25 – Science Fair What Makes a Good Science Fair Topic?  Ask these questions:

 Is my topic realistic? Is it something I can do? Is my topic interesting to me? Can I investigate my topic by experimenting and collecting data? Can I afford what I will need to investigate my topic? Do I have enough time to complete the experiment?

 Attention Getting Characteristics:

 The science fair projects which attract the most attention share certain characteristics. Think about these questions:

 Is this project truly original, or has it been done before? Is the answer to my question already known? Will my investigation add significantly to what is known about the topic? Are there outside resources available to me? Have I narrowed my results from all possible angles?

26 – Science Fair Science Fair Project Request Form

Directions: Select 4 different Science Fair Projects to complete. Place them in order of importance with #1 being the most important. Then turn this form into your teacher by for approval.

Do not start your experiment until you received approval from your teacher.

Volcanoes will not be accepted.

Teacher Approval

Project: has been approved.

Teacher: Date:

27 – Science Fair Science Fair Proposal

Your Testable Question

Your Hypothesis

Independent Variable (What you are purposely changing?) Dependent Variable (The change that you measure)

Controlled Variables (What stays the same during the experiment?)

Explain how you are going to test your question. How are you going to obtain quantitative data (what tool/instrument will you use to make measurements)? Summarize your procedures. Attach another piece of paper if necessary.

28 – Science Fair Use a drawing to show how you will test your question (draw your experiment).

How many trials will you need to perform your experiment? (How many times will you repeat your experiment to get an accurate “best value”?)

Is your experiment a fair test? Explain.

Teacher Only: Other Comments: Approval:

Project Approved! -- Begin background Research paper Please revise and resubmit. - No credit yet. Please choose another idea and write another proposal – No credit yet

Teacher Circled Comments: Amazing project idea! I can’t wait to see how it turns out. Your project has great potential. See me to make it great! Your project has more than one independent variable. Your project is collecting qualitative data (not quantitative). Your project needs to be more advanced (middle school level). This project could be dangerous, have a parent help you. This project violates one or more science fair rules.

29 – Science Fair Name Date Teacher Due Date

This sheet is designed to help you outline your experiment. If you need more space, use the back to finish your outline. When you are done with this sheet, turn it in on the due date. Your teacher will review it with you and you can begin collecting data. Materials (List everything you will need, include quantities)

Procedure (List what you are going to do in the order that you are going to do it.)

30 – Science Fair 7.

Teacher Initials

Name Date

Teacher Due Date

This sheet is designed to help you carry out your experiment. When you are done with this sheet, turn it in on the due date. Your teacher will review it with you and you can begin experimenting.

1. Date all materials will be collected

2. Location where materials will be stored

3. Lab where experiment will be conducted

4. Lab Safety approval

5. Date for Pre-lab review with teacher

6. Lab partner’s name(s)

7. Date you will begin your experiment

8. Date review with teacher

9. Date you will finish your experiment

10. Date you will begin your write up

Teacher’s Initials

31 – Science Fair Name Date

Teacher Due Date

This sheet is designed to give you some ideas on how you can collect and record the information that you are going to collect. Check the methods that you are going to use and prepare a sample on the back of this page. When you are done with this sheet, turn it in on the due date. Your teacher will review it with you and you can begin collecting data..

______1. Data Tables ______2. Bar Graphs ______3. Line Graphs ______4. Pie Graphs ______5. Best Fit Graphs ______6. Illustrations ______7. Photographs ______8. Written Descriptions

Teacher Initials

32 – Science Fair Step 10: Constructing the Exhibit

This sheet is designed to give you some ideas on how you design your display board. Remember there is no one correct way to set up your board. It must, however, make sense and follow the steps of the scientific method. Remember:  If you use a title, you still need the question (or problem).  We read from left to right and from top to bottom. Groups topics that go together like question, research, and hypothesis; materials and procedures; analysis and conclusion.  Put pictures and graphs where they fit best and make the most sense.  Make sure you proofread any written work.

33 – Science Fair [ ] An Identified research problem (: A question is given to show what I wanted to find out.) [ ] Research time in library (you may use other sources; however, you must use 3 books.) [ ] Note cards (at least 10)

[ ] A hypothesis (written as "If..., then...") I have stated what I thought would happen. [ ] A description of your experiment [ ] A listing of the 6s involved [ ] Rough draft of the research work [ ] Logbook with data collected during experiments [ ] A detailed research paper, final draft [ ] Cover and Title page [ ] Table of Contents – may not be needed [ ] Abstract (<250 words) [ ] Introduction (Problem & Hypothesis) [ ] Background Information / Literature search [ ] Procedures (used to study the problem) [ ] Materials (needed for your experiment) [ ] Graph or table or diagram (to show results) [ ] Analysis of your results [ ] Conclusions [ ] Bibliography [ ] A detailed project notebook with all of the information included in the template provided. [ ] Display (Background display with posters) [ ] Oral presentation to the class and the judges [ ] Clean up your display and take your project home

34 – Science Fair This is a list of books, articles, pamphlets, and other communications or sources that you used for researching your topic and writing your paper. They are written or typewritten in this form:

A Book with one Author

Author’s surname, first name. Title of Source (book) Place where published: Publisher, Date of Publication. Example: Zubrin, Robert J. Entering Space: Creating a Spacefaring Civilization. New York: Tarcher/Putnam, 1999.

A Book with two or more Authors

Authors (as listed on book). Title of book. Place of publication: Publisher, Year Published.

Example: Diehl, Daniel, and Mark Donnelly. Medieval Furniture: Plans and Instructions for Historical

Reproductions. Mechanicsburg, PA: Stackpole, 1999.

A Magazine Article

Author’s surname, first name. "Title of article." Name of magazine Publication date: volume; page number(s).

Example: Mullen, William. “Dinosaur Bones in Sahara Prove a Monster Find.” Chicago Tribune 12 Nov. 1999, late ed., sec. 1, 1+

Government Publications

Name of the government (country, state, etc.). Name of agency. Title of publication, Location of agency, Year published.

INTERNET Source:

Author. “Title of web article.” Title of web page. Date posted/published. Date accessed.

Example: Besthoff, Len. “Cell Phone Use Increases Risk of Accidents, but Users Willing to Take the Risk,” WRAL Online. 11 Nov. 1999. 12 Jan. 2001. .

35 – Science Fair 1. Shows knowledge of the Scientific Method: (Oral Presentation) 4pt. Explains all 6 topics easily with little to no use of the board, shows understanding of conclusion. 3pt. Explains at least 5 topics easily, shows understanding. 2pt. Explains most topics with help from the board. 1pt. Tries to answer questions asked by the judge.

2. Idea: “ If I do this, then this should happen” 4pt. Question was interesting to the student and could be investigated. 2pt. Question could not be tested/investigated or did not merit investigation. 1pt. No question found

3. Shows use of the Scientific Method through the board: 4pt. Presents steps of method clearly and completely with headings. 3pt. Presents each step of method clearly. 2pt. Has each step on the board. 1pt. Has some steps on the board.

4. Shows enthusiasm and interest in the project: 4pt. Student is excited about the project and eagerly tells about it. 3pt. Student is pleasant and shares information. 2pt. Student tells about the project, when asked. 1pt. Student answers some questions about the project.

5. Speaks knowledgeably about the project: 4pt. Student eagerly talks with many details of the experimentation. 3pt. Student shows understanding of the project and is able to explain the results. 2pt. Student knows that the project is, giving minimal explanation. 1pt. Student can answer questions when prompted.

6. Presents scientific data in a well-organized, visually appealing display: 4pt. Board shows data in clear tables, charts, or pictures. 3pt. Board is neat and attractive, limited table, chart and/or pictures. 2pt. Board has headings, using information stated. 1pt. Board has headings and limited information.

36 – Science Fair 7. Research Report = 10 Elements 4pt. Has all 10 elements in the research report and student used a minimum of 3 books 3pt. Has 8 elements in the research report. 2pt. Has 6 elements in the research report 1pt. Has 4 or less elements in the research report or no report at all.

8. Project Notebook= 13 Sections 4pt. Has all 13 sections in the project notebook and student used a minimum of 3 books 3pt. Has 9 sections in the project notebook. 2pt. Has 6 sections in the project notebook. 1pt. Has 5 or less elements in the project notebook or no book at all.

9. Selection Creativity/Originality 4pt. An exceptional degree of creativity and/or originality 3pt. Some degree of creativity and/or originality 1pt. Project is based on the designs or ideas of others.

10. Conclusion/Summary 4pt. Provides a conclusion based on the data, research, and hypothesis; and is able to provide ideas for future research. 3pt. Somewhat provides a conclusion based on the data, research, and hypothesis; and is able to provide different variables for future research. 2pt. Provides a conclusion with some reference to the data and the hypothesis statement(s). 1pt. No conclusion was apparent OR important details were overlooked.

37 – Science Fair Websites

Free Science Fair Project Ideas, Answers, & Tools for Serious Students http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_scientific_method.shtml

Free Science Fair Projects http://www.freesciencefairproject.com/

Live Science http://www.livescience.com/38356-middle-school-science-fair-projects.html

Science Fair Report Example http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_sample_final_report.pdf

What is a Science Fair Webquest https://web.utk.edu/~swagner4/sciencefairwq.html

Science Fair Report

Science Fair Projects World http://www.sciencefair-projects.org/

The Display Board The Display Board http://mset.rst2.edu/portfolios/l/lautz_s/Science%20Fair%20Handbook/displayboard.html

How to Create a Winning Science Fair Display Board http://school.discoveryeducation.com/sciencefaircentral/Science-Fair-Presentations/How-to- Create-a-Winning-Science-Fair-Display-Board.html

Link to create on-line graphs Kids Zone Learning with NCES http://nces.ed.gov/nceskids/createagraph/default.aspx

38 – Science Fair