The Science Fair in High School: The Benefits of Participating in One

Is the science fair worth participating in? Science fairs are often mandatory in elementary and middle school because they introduce the world of scientific inquiry and motivate kids to pursue STEM. But when optional, are the benefits worth the time and effort?

Why are Science Fairs Worth Participating in?

While science fairs are an extensive process, they help develop various skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, time management, and communication by applying the principles of the scientific method. Furthermore, they open opportunities to win awards, gain a deep understanding of an area of science that interests you, and challenge yourself. Sometimes, lack of motivation may discourage you from participating, so the first step to getting started (choosing an area of science and project idea) is the most important!

Steps to Getting Started in a Science Fair

Choosing an Area of Science

Choosing an area of science is the hardest part of any science fair project. But the most important thing to keep in mind is doing a project that interests you. Start off by just brainstorming ideas; make sure to jot down your bad ideas too! There will be a lot of time to cut down your list and choose one. If nothing comes to your mind, try:

• Selecting an area of science that interests you from the https://www.societyforscience.org/isef/categories-and-subcategories/.

• Identifying problems that could use innovative solutions/improved-upon solutions.

• Asking "why" questions about what you observe/see in the world.

Overall, your project should be along the lines of improving something that already exists, making a new finding in a field, or discovering a new approach to a current problem. You can also look at winning science fair ideas for inspiration.

Form a Testable Question

Once you've chosen a project from your list under an area of science, form a testable question. A testable question can be answered by conducting an investigation, and you must record your results with data.

Background Research

Most likely, you already completed some preliminary research when determining your project topic.

This step is when you really dig deeper and become familiar with your subject/problem and all the recent discoveries in the field. This research will be submitted, so start a citation list and record your notes. A good tip is to focus on studies that relate to your testable question, as it will help you form a hypothesis.

Hypothesis and Procedure

After your background research, you should have a better understanding of your project topic and begin to form a hypothesis for your testable question, whether your project involves setting up an experiment or designing prototypes.

Create a procedure that accounts for all the controlled variables and how the independent variable affects the dependent. For engineering projects, you'll also need to design multiple prototypes (consider variables like functionality, cost, accessibility) and create evaluation criteria.

Testing and Collecting Data

When collecting data, make sure to take consistent and accurate measurements by following the procedure each time. Iterations of data collection are essential for reliable data.

Analyzing Data and Making Conclusions

Once your testing is finished, it's time to analyze your results! Find and then interpret patterns and trends in your data.

For engineering projects:

• Was your prototype successful?

• Did it meet the constraints and evaluation criteria?

For inquiry projects:

• Can you answer your original testable question?

• Does your data make sense according to your research?

There are inaccuracies in every investigation; these will be listed in your uncertainty analysis. Lastly, how can you improve your product/experiment; are there ways to reduce uncertainty?

Finalizing your Presentation

There are three main parts to your science fair project:

• Scientific Report: The scientific report consists of:

  • Title

  • Abstract

  • Background Research

  • Hypothesis

  • Materials

  • Procedure

  • Data

  • Conclusion

• Visual Display: Your board should present all the parts of your project (emit background research) in a pleasing and organized manner. Include pictures for visual aid.

• Presentation: Write a script that summarizes your project and the key takeaways. Practice it in front of the mirror and be prepared to answer follow-up questions from the judge after you give your speech.

• Final tips to keep in mind for a winning project:

  • The project idea should be unique. (Does it relate to current events, am I creating a novel design or at least improving something, will my findings be significant? Has my project been done before?)

  • Is it feasible?

  • Find a mentor (science teacher, experts/professors in the field - try cold emailing, etc.)

  • A thorough and well-researched paper (you can add interviews and different types of media you used in this process)

  • Applicable conclusions and future ideas

  • Jot down potential questions judges may ask you to prepare for your presentation (also look professional!)

  • And, of course, make sure your project follows all the science fair rules and is approved.