Winning Science Fair Projects: Lesson 1 - Find a Science Fair Project Idea

Winning Science Fair Projects Lesson 1 - Find a Science Fair Project Idea From Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D., your Guide to Chemistry Welcome to the Winning Science Fair Projects newsletter. Today, let's take a look at project ideas. Find out what makes a good project and how to come up with ideas and turn them into a successful experiment or demonstration. The Basics: Understanding Science Fair Projects What Is a Science Fair Project?  You may have to do a science fair project or help with one, but might be unclear what exactly one is. It's usually an activity in which you use the scientific method to answer a question or solve a problem. Need more help? Here's an introduction to science fair projects that should help clear up any confusion. The Five Types of Science Fair Projects There isn't a one-size-fits-all definition for a science fair project. Depending on your educational level (elementary school, high school, college) some project types may be more acceptable than others. Here's a look at the main project types, with examples and suggestions of where to find ideas. Reasons to Do a Science Fair Project In addition to knowing what a science fair project is, it's nice to have some reasons for doing them. Sometimes science fair projects are assigned to students who have trouble doing something they don't see a point to completing. Other times, projects are optional. Science fair projects take some time and energy, but they are worthwhile.Here's why... Find a Science Fair Depending on where you live, you might have to go looking for a science fair. I found a website that lists all of the science fairs in the world that have their own webpages. Find a Science Fair Project Idea How to Choose a Topic  Sometimes the problem is coming up with an idea. Other times, the stumbling block is coming up with an experiment based on the idea. Here are some recommendations for how to brainstorm and decide which ideas are good. Elementary School Project Ideas These projects provide an introduction to the scientific method. Grade school projects often use materials around the home. Middle School Project Ideas Kids in middle school often need some help organizing their projects, but this is a great level for experimentation and investigation. High School Project Ideas High school students are pretty independent. A good project at this level can help a student with educational and career goals, so this is a great opportunity to show everyone what you've got! College Level Project Ideas The type of project you would do for a college science fair depends a lot on your background (scientist? taking a science class to fulfill a requirement?), but most projects address practical problems or questions. Remember, a project doesn't have to be complicated to be exceptional. Got Questions? Visit the Chemistry Forum  You can ask and answer questions about your science fair project at About's chemistry forum. You'll find scientists, engineers, teachers, students, parents, and other people just like you with an interest in science. Science Fair Project Help It's nice to have a one-page reference for project ideas, sample experiments, report and display help, and places you can go with questions. In addition to the e-course, you may want to bookmark this science fair project index page for handy reference. Science Fair Project Quiz Think you understand? Test yourself with this quick multiple choice quiz! Chemistry Activities for Kids E-Course Are you ready for kid-friendly chemistry activities and games? Each e-course newsletter features safe projects, games or quizzes, and links for additional learning. Learn about the elements, grow crystals, and more! When you sign up you'll get one newsletter a week until you've gotten them all. Sign me up! This email is written by:  Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.