Science Fair Project Tips

What is the Scientific Method?

The scientific method is the universally accepted, organized approach to the study of science. It consists of the following:

1. a reasonable hypothesis, based on completed background reading

2. relevant research (often including experiments) so you can evaluate your hypothesis

3. observations and data

4. summary of results

5. conclusions relating directly to your hypothesis

6. a discussion and explanation of the results (unexpected or expected), including ideas on how the project might be expanded and how results might be applied in the future

What is the difference between an experimental project and a non-experimental/research project? 

ELEMENTARY STUDENTS: You may choose to do an experimental or a non-experimental/research project.

1. Experimental projects: These projects  involve testing a hypothesis under controlled conditions using the scientific method. As the researcher, you control several variables, manipulate one variable in a controlled way, and then measure, record and analyze the responding variable to reach a conclusion.

2. Non-experimental/research projects: These projects include surveys, model construction, computer programming, engineering design, and literature surveys.

SECONDARY STUDENTS: You may choose to do an experimental project, an innovation, or a study.

• Experimental projects: These projects involve testing a hypothesis under controlled conditions using the scientific method. As the researcher, you control several variables, manipulate one variable in a controlled way, and then measure, record and analyze the responding variable, to reach your conclusion.

• Innovation projects: These projects focus on the development and evaluation of innovative devices, models or techniques in technology, engineering or computers (hardware or software). As the researcher, you should demonstrate an understanding of the properties of the materials/methods used, the reasons for choosing them, and the effectiveness of your design. Test your innovation and modify it if you discover shortcomings during testing.

• Study Projects: These projects involve the collection and analysis of data to reveal evidence of a fact or a situation of scientific interest. They could include a study of cause and effect relationships or theoretical investigations of scientific data.

What are the elements of an experimental project?

1. To learn about the elements of an experimental project, click here.

What are the elements of a non-experimental/research project?

1. To learn about the elements of a non-experimental/research project, click here.

What is a logbook?

Every student doing a science fair project MUST HAVE A LOGBOOK.

1. To learn about logbooks, click here.

     What are some pointers for oral presentations on judging day?    

1. To learn about project presentations, click here.

What do you need to know about backboards/tri-folds?

1. To learn about backboards/tri-folds click here.

What are the top ten ways you can improve your project? 

• To learn about the top ten ways you can improve your project, click here.

What are the judges looking for when they evaluate your project?

1. To view a copy of the Elementary Judging Tally Sheet, click here.

2. To view a copy of the Secondary Judging Tally Sheet, click here.

Is there a video that shows how to do a science fair project?

1. To  view an excellent video/dvd produced by the Canada Wide Science Fair and Encana during the Canada Wide Science Fair at Truro, NS, click here.