Here's two Secrets to Good Science Fair Projects!
The key to good science fair projects is to know what the judges are looking for, and do a project on what you are curious about... something that your are passionate about... something that will keep your intrerest for 3 months. What peaks your interest? Do you like mixing chemicals together and finding out what happens. Well then, you would be interested in chemistry science fair projects? To design successful super-science-fair-projects, choose an exciting topic. Exciting for you, not your parents or your teacher or your friend. After all, it's yours, not theirs. The judges are looking for inspired students, and it's difficult to be inspired if you're doing something you don't like. This will spell disaster, because the judges, and everyone else, will read the lack of interest in your face and in the presentation. Another easy way to set your project apart is to have an original idea. Kits and books are excellent resources, but don't copy. Judges have been around a long time and have seen a lot of projects, so make yours different--somehow. For example: don't stop where the kit or book does--take the process a step further to see what happens. Parents and teachers can help in this area, to give you additional ideas and supervise the extra work. This definitely shows motivation on your part, and judges like that extra effort. Did you know that there are kits made to use for your science fair projects?
What is the single most impressive piece of any project? By knowing what you're talking about, you show that you've put in your time. Yes, it is the time and effort you put into the your project... from hypothesis to conclusion... showing that you commited yourself to the process of discovery. Your science project depends completely on you--how you choose it, how you conduct it, and how you present it. But also, how you present yourself. While it is the exhibit itself that is being judged and not you, your appearance and your attitude is what stands in front. Be neat and clean, awake and energetic, and the process will be smooth and easy. Relax, be cool and everything will flow like water. Smile, shake hands, be comfortable and welcoming, and teachers and judges alike will be impressed with whatever you present. Take time to choose the supplies for your display. Make sure the board is the correct height, that the colors are bright and clear, and that the information is understandable. The display board is the visual aid to all your hard work; so don't slap it together the night before. Again, time and effort shines through, and without them, your exhibit will be dull. Then whatever time you did put into it will not be a waste, and no one likes to waste time--especially judges. They appreciate thought and concern to detail. There are a few pieces to the puzzle of creating good science fair projects...
Madeline Binder, M.S.Ed. M.S. Human Services Counseling |