Guide to Completing a Science Fair Project

Guide to Completing a Science Fair Project

A science fair project is an opportunity for the student to: 1) demonstrate an in-depth knowledge about a science topic of his/her choice, 2) perform appropriate research, 3) investigate professional sources of information within the community, and 4) plan and conduct an experiment and present findings.

Prior to beginning research students should find an Adult Sponsor to supervise their projects. It is important students seek appropriate supervision for their projects and follow all protocols outlined by the Georgia Science and Engineering Fair & International Science & Engineering Fair (ISEF), maintain proper safety protocols and seek required approvals (IRB/SRC).

General Information: 1. Visit the GSEF web site for required forms to be completed. Follow all rules set forth by ISEF. 2. Topics suitable for research project should reflect relevance and originality in approach. 3. The science teacher must approve topics. Students should be aware that some projects require IRB/SRC approval. 4. Location and logistics of the project are the responsibility of the student. 5. Materials recommended: 3 Ring Binder Notebook for required forms, research paper, bound "speckled" logbook, and a Tri-fold Backboard. 6. Evidence of experimentation must be included in the logbook to substantiate the set up and periodic progress. 7. Students are required to take pictures of the experiment in progress.

Timeline: fall semester Component

Project Topic Idea Background Research

Experimental Design/ Required Forms

Log Book/Data Tables Log Book/All Research

Log Book/Data Check Rough Draft/Research Rough Draft/Data Analysis & Conclusions Abstract Final research paper

Basic Requirements** Submit 2 ? 3 ideas, rationale; formal proposal Research has begun, at least 5 sources are included in initial research Detailed description of experiment and ISEF required forms completed, signed by appropriate officials, IRB approval required before experimentation begins Set up log book, draw initial data tables At least 5 sources, 25 note cards, bibliography (or other desired format of teacher) Demonstrates progress of data, multiple entries *Formal paper of background research; bibliography *Includes Data, Results/Discussion/Conclusion of experiment Official ISEF form with required components All above *components, title page & TOC

Due Date***

Submit all components of Final Project: Logbook including data charts, Abstract; Final Project Notebook (Includes forms, abstract and Final Research Paper; Project Backboard; Present findings at symposia *See Guidelines for more specific, detailed directions ***Note: Dates and assignments are subject to change at teacher's discretion.

Step-By-Step Guide to the Science Fair Project:

1. Select a topic in which there is a genuine interest. Sources for ideas could include websites, textbooks,

magazines, newspaper, television, and conversation with professionals in the area of interest. It is very important that you select a topic you are sincerely interested in as you will be completing an in-depth study. GSEF categories will be the same as ISEF categories. Please see page 28 on the link below for a list of categories.

Topic Stipulations: ? Must be approved by your teacher and possibly by the school IRB/SRC. Do NOT begin experimentation until your project has been approved. ? The student must provide materials. ? Materials and equipment known to be hazardous are to be used with responsible supervision. ? Projects involving vertebrates, humans (even surveys), potentially hazardous biological agents (such as bacteria, and hazardous materials/devices require adult supervision.

Topic must satisfy the following criteria: ? Must reflect a question/problem/hypothesis that can be addressed by empirical research methodology. ? Must yield data that is collected by acceptable measurement techniques and is quantitative.

2. Complete required forms from UGA web site. Type information directly on forms and print forms from

UGA web site:

Complete: ? Official Abstract Form (due December/January) ? Checklist for Adult Sponsor (Form 1) ? 1 per project. If team project, enter all students; names on the

line that says "Student's name." Must be signed BEFORE experimentation begins (check dates/signatures) ? Student Checklist (Form 1 A). Step 10 requires that you complete a Research Plan/Project Summary and

attach it to this form ? directions are on the form - Must be signed BEFORE experimentation begins ? Approval (Form 1B) completed by each student if a team - Must be signed BEFORE experimentation

begins ? also SRC/IRB approval (if required) BEFORE experimentation ? Risk Assessment (Form 3) is recommended for everyone - Must be signed PRIOR to experimentation

begins ? Other required forms as related to the project, this may include Regulated Research Setting (1C),

Qualified Scientist (2), Human Participants and Informed Consent (4), Vertebrate Animals (5A/5B), Hazardous Biological Agents (6A), Human/Animal Tissue (6B), Continuation/Research Progression (7) etc., *Rules Wizard can be helpful to determine approvals/forms needed:

*When completing research plan, carefully review the directions on the Research Plan/Project Summary. You will include details such as the rationale, research questions/hypotheses/engineering goals/expected outcomes. Also, include a detailed procedure as well as information about risk and safety and how you will analyze your data. think through variables and constants. See additional details if your project involves human participants, vertebrate animals, potentially hazardous biological agents or hazardous materials.

Check flow charts for required forms carefully to make sure you have appropriate forms completed. All forms must be completed and signed BEFORE experimentation begins. These forms should be placed in a 3-ring

science project notebook. Students are responsible for keeping the originals of these documents. Only send copies of forms when requested if advancing to other competitions.

3. Obtain a logbook: Your logbook should contain accurate and detailed notes of everything you do for your

research project. Good notes will not only you're your consistency and thoroughness to the judges, but will help you when writing a Research paper. The logbook is optional, but is encouraged to be an ongoing component:

Logbook Requirements:

? Log book must be bound ? stitched or glued (dark and white speckled cover, recommended) ? All Entries should be DATED and should in INK only (computer print outs of log book will not be

accepted) ? Divide log books into sections and leave extra space ? To organize, divide into sections, leave index space in the front or back of the log book ? Number your pages and write on the front of pages only ? Include notes on contact people, readings and bibliographic information ? Write down your research plan, thoughts on progress, problems and direction ? Include your raw data (raw data does NOT go on your backboard) ? Do not erase, whiteout, or re-copy. If a mistake is made, cross out with one line and write the correct

entry. ? Be sure to use SI units for all measurements as well as proper headings for all columns in your charts. ? Use a RULER to make any lines or graphs. ? Write everything that you do or consider directly into your logbook. This book will become your

journal and your verification of all information regarding your project. Do not write data down on scratch paper with the intention of copying into the logbook later even if you think it will look neater.

4. Set up logbook following the instructions below:

? Page 1: TITLE PAGE -Bottom, middle of the page write your name in ALL CAPS, list partners name below. -Write the date of project beginning under name(s).

? Page 2: ACKNOWLEDGMENTS PAGE (remember, pages titles in ALL CAPS) -Used to acknowledge anyone who is a significant help to you in completing your project.

? Pages 3: TABLE OF CONTENTS ? add page numbers when log book is complete

Use a ruler to make the following table:

Page Number Bibliography Cards

Research Materials & Procedures

Data Table Results

Discussion Conclusion

Journal

Page Number

Approximate # of pages to reserve 2 10 3 5 5 3 3

*Begins during topic selection

The following will be included in the logbook and later typed and formalized in the final Research Notebook. Use the descriptions and guidelines below to assist you in completing the sections.

? Research This section includes research information from any and all sources that relate to your topic or assist you in the development of your project. Use the included suggested format in the research component section (#6 to set complete research in log book).

? Data Collection ? Develop data charts that allow you to collect quantitative and qualitative data. Be sure to include descriptive qualitative data that describes observations as the experiment is completed. Remember multiple trials and repeating experiments for verification are important. Remember to take pictures as you go along. Don't forget to use the appropriate SI units. All data should be dated and collected throughout your project.

? Results ? all analysis of data should be completed according to teacher guidelines and maintained in bound project notebook. The analysis section included all calculations, averages, graphs, statistical analysis, etc., Include brief narrative under each item explaining what the item is and what it means. Be sure to look at the "Organize, Analyze and Synthesize" button under lesson plans on the UGA site. Think about the following: did your experiment give you expected results? Why or why not? What do your results tell you? How does this information match commonly held beliefs from your research? Was your experiment performed in exactly the same way each time? What variables were important? Did you collect enough data? Keep an open mind...never alter results to fit a theory.

? Conclusion - briefly summarized results; discusses if your data supported your hypothesis and what your next steps of experimentation may be.

? Journal - the Journal section is a narrative outlining what you are doing and what you are thinking while you are collecting data. Keep detailed notes in the Journal Section for every step of the experiment. Every time you work on your experiment, record the date, time (start & ending), location and observations. Include any thoughts, questions, new ideas, and problems, failures or changes you make in your procedure as you go along.

5. Carry out background research. Research may be done at media center, the county library, university

libraries in which students are permitted, personal libraries, online services, electronic media, and personal interviews of experts in the field. The research is an ongoing process and will be used to write the research component of the final research paper.

Research Component Requirements:

? An optional research paper development strategy is outlined below. ? A minimum of 5 sources (per person) ? Use a variety of sources:

o No more than one general encyclopedia o Use AT LEAST TWO periodical resource (journal/magazine/newspaper), AT LEAST ONE book

resource and AT LEAST ONE Internet resource.

Bibliography Cards ? include a source number as noted below and write in proper MLA format. Divide table

into "T" chart by dividing page in half and have 3 ? 4 rows per page.

I.

II.

III.

IV.

V.

VI.

Research Cards ? divide research into "T" columns as shown below with one line dividing the page in half and

3 ? 4 rows per page (be consistent with number of rows for neatness). Research notes should NOT be written in

complete sentences, but should be written in brief, bulleted statements. It is suggested each page of notes

represents a topic to assistant in the development of the paper. Be sure to include the source number on each

card and topic on each page. You may want to reserve multiple pages for topics.

Topic

Source #

Topic

Source #

Few general ideas/facts from research

Few general ideas/facts from research

Topic

Source #

Few general ideas/facts from research

Topic

Source #

Few general ideas/facts from research

6. Formulate a hypothesis. The hypothesis should be short and concise. It must be a reasonable explanation

based on research that includes the relationship between the independent and dependent variables; if, then statements are recommended. The variable being tested is the independent variable. The dependent variable is any change that results from the manipulation of the independent variable. Write the hypothesis in the logbook.

Example: "Chemical fertilizers added to bean plants will affect growth." Independent Variable: chemical fertilizers/Dependent Variable: growth

7. Develop the research project plan. Follow the directions on the Student Checklist (1A form) for the

Research Plan/Project Summary. You will turn in a typed version of the Research Plan with the Student Checklist (1A) for approval. Save a copy on your computer hard drive, as it will be included in research report in the Final Research Notebook. The research plan must be approved before the experiment can begin.

8. Conduct the experiment, record observations, records all data. Photograph your experiment on a

daily/semi-weekly basis from start to finish.

Requirements for experiment:

? Record all quantitative and qualitative observations in the logbook ? be sure to date all entries. ? Record all measurements in SI units. ? Record all data in appropriate charts and graphs ? Take photographs of the in-process project. ? Repeat the experiment in order to verify the results!

9. Write Research Component/Bibliography of paper. From the research completed in the logbook, a

rough draft and formal research paper will be typed and turned in. Both papers are formal writings and should NOT be put into the logbook, but will be submitted, revised and included in the Final Project Notebook.

Research Components/Bibliography Rough Draft requirements:

? Typed, double-spaced, Times New Roman, 12 pt. font, 1" margins; written in third person ? Introduction: explains background information, reasoning behind choice of study, refers to previous

research as well as your own experiments, establishes strong rationale for the study by emphasizing unresolved issues or questions. Ends with hypothesis. ? 2 to 4 pages for an individual; 4 to 6 pages for a group/One paper per group ? Concluding paragraph: summarizes content of paper ? Includes bibliography in MLA format ? Use MLA format when quoting from sources:

o Direct quotes will be put in "quotes", followed by title of source in (parentheses). o Quotes that are not direct must still be followed by the title of source in (parentheses). o Give credit where credit is due. DO NOT PLAGIARIZE! ? The research paper will go through a review process that includes peer and adult revisions before submitting. Reviewers, using different colors of ink with signatures should be included.

10. Write the abstract. Requirements for abstract: ? On GSEF Official Abstract Form found at



Make at least 4 copies: one copy pasted in logbook of each group member, one copy turned in to the teacher for approval, one copy include in the Project Notebook and one copy for the backboard ? Should be written in paragraph form/250 words maximum

? Includes: title of project (brief and descriptive, should be same title on all forms and display),

problem (tells reader what specific questions are addressed in the study; the intent and objectives of the research are made explicit in this statement; purpose (states usefulness of the study and answers the question why the project was undertaken); procedure (brief summary of what was done); conclusions (concise statements of the outcomes of the investigation and should be written in nontechnical language and related to the hypothesis; the conclusions should identify unsolved aspects of the original problem or any new problems identified)

? Helpful Hints: use past tense and third person; use correct spelling and sentence structure. Avoid

the use of highly specialized words or abbreviations. Restrict procedure to identification of method or type of process employed. State results, conclusions in clear, concise fashion.

11. Prepare Draft of Results/Conclusion: Final Research paper requirements:

? Typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. font, Times New Roman, 1" margins ? The research paper will go through a review process that includes peer and adult revisions before

submitting. Reviewers, using different colors of ink with signatures should be included.

Paper organization:

? Title page & Table of Contents ? Results: present the data collected in the experiment in tables and graphs; summarize the data in

narrative form. Include statistical analysis of the data. Do not include raw data. It is preferred the charts/graphs are computer generated. ? Discussion: results should and conclusions should flow logically and smoothly from your data. Be thorough. Compare results with theoretical values, published data, commonly held beliefs and/or

expected results. A complete paper should include a discussion of possible errors or problems experienced. You may also include a list of new questions that were raised by the experiment, and explanation of how you might continue or redesign the experiment if the project continued, and tell how the information gathered from your experiment could be useful in the real world. ? Conclusion: briefly summarized results; discusses if your data supported your hypothesis and what your next steps of experimentation may be. ? Abstract

12. Prepare Project Notebook: Final Research Component Guidelines:

? Revised version of draft components described in the above sections and included in the order listed below.

? Paper should be a clean, formal copy with no marks or ink corrections. ? Typed, double-spaced, 12 pt. font, Times New Roman, 1" margins

Components: (in the order list below)

? Abstract ? Required Forms

Final Research Paper:

? Title page: title of the project in the center of the page; student's name(s), grade, school, and teacher's name should be in the lower right-hand corner.

? Table of Contents: number each section as you finish writing ? Introduction: explains background information, reasoning behind choice of study, refers to previous

research as well as your own experiments, establishes strong rationale for the study by emphasizing unresolved issues or questions. Ends with hypothesis. ? Materials & Procedures: updated version of Research Plan ? Research ? Results ? Discussion ? Conclusion ? Acknowledgements/Credits ? Bibliography ? Appendix: Include critical information that is too lengthy for the main section of the paper, such as raw data, additional tables and graphs, copies of surveys or tests, and diagrams of specialized equipment.

13. Complete a backboard of project. See additional GSEF or ISEF instructions for formatting. General

suggestions include: ? If you include photographs, you must have a photo release form for individuals other than yourself

with parental consent if under 18. These should be in the notebook (and not on ? Be organized ? logically present information and make it easy to read ? follow the path of the

scientific method from left to right, top to bottom; try to avoid large amounts of blank space ? Title ? should simply and accurately represent your research ? Eye Catching ? use strong, large lettering and labels, simple striking color combinations, charts and

graphs

What do judges look for?

? How well a student followed the scientific method and how well thought out the research is ? The detail and accuracy of the notes and the depth of knowledge about the topic/experiment ? Whether the tools/equipment were used in the best way possible as well as the significance of the project

in its field

 ................
................

In order to avoid copyright disputes, this page is only a partial summary.

Google Online Preview   Download