8th Grade Science Fair Projects: Advice for Your Next Project
Every year, schools present the modified “show-and-tell” that students dream of—and some parents dread—also known as the science fair. In this blog post, we aim to alleviate some of the frustration associated with these exhibitions, from unveiling the secret to the perfect 8th grade science fair project to how to conduct a fair at your school!
Benefits of an 8th Grade Science Fair Project Participation
Science fairs allow students to demonstrate and experience innovations within the STEM fields. Science fairs can also host local, national, and international competitions. There are various motivators for educators and students to host and participate in 8th grade science fairs—some of which we share below.
Support on college applications (as a standout activity)
The development of soft skills, such as public speaking and effective visuals
Increased critical thinking through challenging environments
Opportunities to earn scholarships and other prizes
Networking with alumni and like-minded peers
Discover new areas of interest in STEM
An ultimately fun experience!
The Secret to a Phenomenal 8th Grade Science Fair Project
Your 8th grade science fair project can defy the odds, but it should also have a new sense of thoughtfulness that some Hollywood movies lack. Fundamental science courses teach the steps of the scientific method, where students do the following:
1: Define a Question to Investigate
A good scientist is an inquisitive one, and always collects and observes information to question—be it the source of a phenomenon, the effects of a new finding, and more! In a world where science constantly surrounds us, the questions we ask and choose to solve may just change the very fabric of our society.
2: Formulate Predictions or Hypotheses
As defined by the American Museum of Natural History, a hypothesis is a possible answer to the question scientists define. Hypotheses derive from existing evidence and theories as well as other research scientists acquire.
3: Experimentation and Testing
Now, it is time for arguably the most enjoyable part of creating an 8th grade science fair project! Before we can prove or disprove our hypothesis, we need to collect data by testing the hypothesis! Experimentation can be done anywhere, from a physical science lab, peer interviews, or surveying anything in our backyard. To collect data in artificial intelligence, we typically run models to determine how machine learning operates in different simulations.
4: Analyze the Data and Record Your Findings
Before we finish implementing the scientific method to create a conclusion, we need to interpret our collected data. In essence, we are answering the question, “What do our findings tell us about our hypothesis?” To analyze data, scientists organize results in visual manifestations, like graphs and tables. In this manner, it becomes easier to recognize any patterns, similarities, or contrasting shocking information.
5: Draw a Conclusion
With our analyzed information, we determine what evidence supports or disproves the hypothesis and whether our hypothesis is valid. In an 8th grade science fair project, success does not solely depend on the validity of our hypothesis! Sometimes, we need to revise our testing procedure to produce improved results. In contrast, the fact that our hypothesis isn’t proven may debunk preconceived notions in a field. Ultimately, your 8th grade science fair project should prompt new questions, for you, the scientist, and those observing to ask and research for themselves.
Don’t forget to communicate your findings with others!
Three Examples of 8th Grade Science Fair Projects
Outside of the textbook homemade volcano, there are always new 8th grade science fair projects that students can present at their schools. These three, and more, are linked to scienceblogger.org, where you can discover the perfect project for you!
Measuring Electrolytes
No one is truly exempt from advertising exposure, and sports drink corporations do a phenomenal job at convincing consumers to purchase their projects. Think of how many times you’ve purchased a Gatorade, Powerade, or Propel bottle because of the endless about of “replenishing electrolytes” football players or celebrities gain after they sweat! However, what if natural beverages, such as orange juice, produce the same amount of electrolytes, if not more, for a fraction of the cost? Through this 8th grade science fair project, you’ll be able to learn how electrolytes function before excretion and propose what companies can do to promote honest benefits.
The Stroop Effect
Simultaneously patting our heads and rubbing our stomachs isn’t as seamless as it seems, right? The Stroop Effect explains why our mental conflicts occur through interpreting colors. In this visual and verbal experience, human subjects attempt to tell a facilitator the color of a word on an index card—while the word itself writes a different color.
STEM involves our cognitive processes as much as any other element. The brain dictates most of our daily functions (outside of a mainly autonomous circulatory system), so it’s important to inform the general public how it can work through an 8th grade science fair project!
Artificial Intelligence: An Explanation of an Inspirit AI Scholar / AI+X Research / Deep Dive Presentation
8th grade science fair projects are known to bring fresh ideas. What better way to do so than to introduce a phenomenon that is gradually integrating into our world? The capacity of artificial intelligence is expansive, and in contrast to popular belief, it is not always difficult to navigate. The best method of showcasing AI in an 8th grade science fair project is to train a small online program to complete a task, such as identifying facial expressions.
Interested in artificial intelligence as an 8th grade science fair project may influence a desire to participate in small research programs, such as Inspirit AI! As an AI scholar, you receive two weeks of intensive mentoring and experimentation with Stanford and MIT alumni.
How to Conduct an 8th Grade Science Fair
No one is limited to solely designing their own research projects. Instead, you can create a space for you and your peers to communicate your findings and share your passion for STEM!
Locate a Venue
Preparation ensures success for large events. For an 8th grade science fair, organizers must account for finding locations that can accommodate large exhibitions and crowds. Additionally, hosts must contact judges and outline a tentative schedule to ensure a streamlined morning.
Include Interaction
Outside of student presentations during 8th grade science fairs, educators can brainstorm games and small tests to accrue more awareness concerning STEM, such as Jeopardy. Guest speakers can also present their own scientific findings and opinions.
Spread the Word!
Lastly, science is a gift that must be shared with the community. Be sure to invite friends, family, and other institutions to join in the festivities!
Final Remarks on 8th Grade Science Fairs
8th grade science fair projects are no easy feat. However, all students need is to find a question that intrigues them. It’s what the world needs more of—individuals willing to challenge established theories to discover something new. With these resources, you can consider what research to conduct and complete an enjoyable presentation. Have fun!
About Inspirit AI
AI Scholars Live Online is a 10 session (25-hour) program that exposes high school students to fundamental AI concepts and guides them to build a socially impactful project. Taught by our team of graduate students from Stanford, MIT, and more, students receive a personalized learning experience in small groups with a student-teacher ratio of 5:1.
