Preparing for the Science Fair

RISD Elementary Science Department

Why participate in the science fair?

A. My child and I have nothing better to do.

B. My family likes staying up late and losing sleep.

C. It will help focus develop good scientific thinking.

D. There is a large monetary reward for the winner.

E. It’s required by my child’s teacher.

Science Fact

Of the 10 fastest growing occupations, nine are science, math, or technology related.

Science Fact

80% of jobs in the next decade will require some form of math and science.

Science FactPreparing our children for the 21st century means giving them opportunities to manage their time on

task, work collaboratively with others, communicate their ideas and information, and use appropriate

technology.

Why Science Fair?

• Science fair helps children see themselves as scientists.

• Science fair helps children understand that science is a process

• Science fair helps children use reasoning skills and scientific thinking to shape their knowledge.

How can parents help?

A. Help your child find a topic.

B. Allow your child to take over the living floor to work on their project.

C. Pay someone else to do the project.

D. Open your wallet and buy whatever they want.

The key is to start with a good question.

Can my question be tested?

Can I design an investigation within my abilities?

Can I get the necessary materials I need?

Things for students to think about…

Here’s the big question…

Can I do most of the project by myself

with just a little bit of parent help?

Is this testable?

How does a black widow spider spin a web?

No – you can look up the

answer in an Expert

Source

Is this testable?

Will a boat float better in salt water or fresh water?

Yes, you can

design an

Investigation

Is this testable?

What kind of environment do ladybugs prefer- dry or wet?

Yes, you can design an

Investigatio

n

Is this testable?

Why do volcanoes erupt?

No – you can look up the

answer in an Expert

Source

A. something really exciting and different

B. something that your child is interested in

C. something that doesn’t require a lot of expensive or unusual materials

D. something that can be tested

E. All of the above

What makes a good topic?

What makes a good topic?

•Testable questions

- What would happen if I did this?

- Compare two items -

- Which absorbs better – cloth diapers or disposable diapers?

- Do earthworms prefer lettuce or cabbage?

•Control the variables – everything remains the same except one thing

Two Types of Projects

Investigation of a Problem:

Does the type of pot effect the growth of daisies?

What is the most electricity you can make using a magnet and coil?

Which paint protects wood the best – spray paint or brush on paint?

Demonstration of a Scientific Principle:

Measuring lung capacity

An electrical smoke trap

Faraday’s famous ice pail experiment

Stay Away From:

Surveys

Comparing human traits

Things that can be researched to find the answer

Topics which are too easy for the level of your child

Topics which are too hard for the level of your child

Parents can also…Discuss with your child the difficulty of the project

– Does it requires a technical knowledge or equipment that he/she can’t acquire?

– Will it be too expensive or the necessary equipment and materials are not available?

•Help your child keep up with their journal – record and date questions, preparation, the investigation and findings

•Help with time management – break the project into pieces. Have due dates all along the way.

Basic Things to Know•All 4th, 5th and 6th grade students are expected to present a project which follows standard science fair expectations following the district and regional guidelines.

• K-3 are encouraged to participate

•Projects may not be repeated or reused; however, EXPANDING a project or topic from a previous year is allowable.

•Students may participate individually or in groups of no more than 3 students.

How will the project be judged?

Creative Ability……………………………. 30 points

Scientific Thought………………………… 30 points

Thoroughness……………………………… 15 points

Skill………………………………………… 15 points

Clarity……………………………………… 10 points

SAFETY 101Follow the handout given to your child- it has more information

Students MAY NOT conduct experiments that:

1. involve poisons, hazardous substances, controlled substances or devices or the ingestion or application of any over-the-counter medications to animals or humans.

2. involve microbial cultures, mold, or fungi (disease causing), including rotting or spoiled foods, or any other possibly pathogenic substances. (Exception: Experiment with baker’s yeast so long as rDNA studies are NOT involved.)

3. involve microbial presence/growth including animal material such as manure. (Exception: Experiments with composting to test variables.)

4. involve human parts, blood or other body fluids. (Exception: Experiments may include teeth that were naturally extracted by a dentist, primary teeth that were naturally removed, or hair clippings.)

5. cause or may cause harm or injury to animals or human subjects.

Display 101Follow the handout given to your child – It has more information

ANYTHING THAT COULD BE CONSIDERED HAZARDOUS AS A PUBLIC DISPLAY IS PROHIBITED

No food, liquids, animals, needles, human parts… No living plants, soil, waste materials… No mold, bacterial cultures, open flames… Use pictures but cover up faces No personal information displayed – even on the back of the

board or in the journal No electronics – there are no outlets at the Garland Special

Event Center

All projects must be able to stand up themselves – unsupported

Questions?

Thanks for Coming!