How Do I Start and Complete My Science Project?
Adapted from: http://pbskids.org/dragonflytv
1. Science Rules and Procedure.Please make sure to read all of the Science Fair rules and become familiar with the Scientific Method prior to beginning your project.
2. Dive In and Start your research! Visit your local or school library, hop online or interview an expert to learn about your chosen topic.
3. That's a Good Question! Find an interesting question that you can answer by doing an experiment. Get specific! A good question will not just have a yes or no answer. Don't just ask, "Will a heavy rocket fly higher than a light one?" Instead, ask: "How does the weight of a model rocket affect how high it flies?"
4. It's Design Time.Think about all the variables that could affect your experiment's results. Figure out which one you want to change and how to keep everything else constant. For example, if you change the rocket's weight, keep the shape and engine the same.
5. Got a Hunch?? Write down your hypothesis, or what you think will happen during your experiment. "I think that the lighter my rocket is, the higher it will fly."
6. Let the Experiments Begin! Repeat your experiments several times if possible. Change only the variable you selected and keep everything else constant.
7. Stay on Track.Take lots of notes and measurements, snap some photos, and sketch pictures of your observations. Careful records lead to accurate findings and make your display look great!
8. Analyze It! Make charts and graphs of your data to organize your observations into well-labeled tables that tell the story of your results. Then,review your findings. Did your results support your hypothesis? If not, don't worry! Discuss why that might have happened. This is part ofthe scientific process too!
9. Show the World! Create a neat and eye-catching display that showcases your work. See the Scientific Method for layout. Include information about all the stages of your investigation - your research, plan, hypothesis, procedure, results, conclusion, report, and charts. Include pictures and drawings if you have them.