How to Write a Science Fair Project Report

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Writing a science fair project report may seem like a challenging task, but it is not as difficult as it first appears. This is a format that you may use to write a science project report. If your project included animals, humans, hazardous materials, or regulated substances, you can attach an appendix that describes any special activities your project required. Also, some reports may benefit from additional sections, such as abstracts and bibliographies. You may find it helpful to fill out the science fair lab report template to prepare your report.

Important: Some science fairs have guidelines put forth by the science fair committee or an instructor. If your science fair has these guidelines, be sure to follow them.

  • Title:  For a science fair, you probably want a catchy, clever title. Otherwise, try to make it an accurate description of the project. For example, I could entitle a project, "Determining Minimum NaCl Concentration That Can Be Tasted in Water." Avoid unnecessary words, while covering the essential purpose of the project. Whatever title you come up with, get it critiqued by friends, family, or teachers.
  • Introduction and Purpose:  Sometimes this section is called "background." Whatever its name, this section introduces the topic of the project, notes any information already available, explains why you are interested in the project, and states the purpose of the project. If you are going to state references in your report, this is where most of the citations are likely to be, with the actual references listed at the end of the entire report in the form of a bibliography or reference section.
  • The Hypothesis or Question:  Explicitly state your hypothesis or question.
  • Materials and Methods:  List the materials you used in your project and describe the procedure that you used to perform the project. If you have a photo or diagram of your project, this is a good place to include it.
  • Data and Results:  Data and results are not the same things. Some reports will require that they be in separate sections, so make sure you understand the difference between the concepts. Data refers to the actual numbers or other information you obtained in your project. Data can be presented in tables or charts, if appropriate. The results section is where the data is manipulated or the hypothesis is tested. Sometimes this analysis will yield tables, graphs, or charts, too. For example, a table listing the minimum concentration of salt that I can taste in water, with each line in the table being a separate test or trial, would be data. If I average the data or perform a statistical test of a null hypothesis , the information would be the results of the project.
  • Conclusion:  The conclusion focuses on the hypothesis or question as it compares to the data and results. What was the answer to the question? Was the hypothesis supported (keep in mind a hypothesis cannot be proved, only disproved)? What did you find out from the experiment? Answer these questions first. Then, depending on your answers, you may wish to explain the ways in which the project might be improved or introduce new questions that have come up as a result of the project. This section is judged not only by what you were able to conclude but also by your recognition of areas where you could not draw valid conclusions based on your data.

Appearances Matter

Neatness counts, spelling counts, grammar counts. Take the time to make the report look nice. Pay attention to margins, avoid fonts that are difficult to read or are too small or too large, use clean paper, and make print the report cleanly on as good a printer or copier as you can.

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Teaching Resources & Guides > How to Teach Science Tips > Writing a Science Report  

Writing a Science Report

With science fair season coming up as well as many end of the year projects, students are often required to write a research paper or a report on their project. Use this guide to help you in the process from finding a topic to revising and editing your final paper.

Brainstorming Topics

Sometimes one of the largest barriers to writing a research paper is trying to figure out what to write about. Many times the topic is supplied by the teacher, or the curriculum tells what the student should research and write about. However, this is not always the case. Sometimes the student is given a very broad concept to write a research paper on, for example, water. Within the category of water, there are many topics and subtopics that would be appropriate. Topics about water can include anything from the three states of water, different water sources, minerals found in water, how water is used by living organisms, the water cycle, or how to find water in the desert. The point is that “water” is a very large topic and would be too broad to be adequately covered in a typical 3-5 page research paper.

When given a broad category to write about, it is important to narrow it down to a topic that is much more manageable. Sometimes research needs to be done in order to find the best topic to write about. (Look for searching tips in “Finding and Gathering Information.”) Listed below are some tips and guidelines for picking a suitable research topic:

  • Pick a topic within the category that you find interesting. It makes it that much easier to research and write about a topic if it interests you.
  • You may find while researching a topic that the details of the topic are very boring to you. If this is the case, and you have the option to do this, change your topic.
  • Pick a topic that you are already familiar with and research further into that area to build on your current knowledge.
  • When researching topics to do your paper on, look at how much information you are finding. If you are finding very little information on your topic or you are finding an overwhelming amount, you may need to rethink your topic.
  • If permissible, always leave yourself open to changing your topic. While researching for topics, you may come across one that you find really interesting and can use just as well as the previous topics you were searching for.
  • Most importantly, does your research topic fit the guidelines set forth by your teacher or curriculum?

Finding and Gathering Information

There are numerous resources out there to help you find information on the topic selected for your research paper. One of the first places to begin research is at your local library. Use the Dewey Decimal System or ask the librarian to help you find books related to your topic. There are also a variety of reference materials, such as encyclopedias, available at the library.

A relatively new reference resource has become available with the power of technology – the Internet. While the Internet allows the user to access a wealth of information that is often more up-to-date than printed materials such as books and encyclopedias, there are certainly drawbacks to using it. It can be hard to tell whether or not a site contains factual information or just someone’s opinion. A site can also be dangerous or inappropriate for students to use.

You may find that certain science concepts and science terminology are not easy to find in regular dictionaries and encyclopedias. A science dictionary or science encyclopedia can help you find more in-depth and relevant information for your science report. If your topic is very technical or specific, reference materials such as medical dictionaries and chemistry encyclopedias may also be good resources to use.

If you are writing a report for your science fair project, not only will you be finding information from published sources, you will also be generating your own data, results, and conclusions. Keep a journal that tracks and records your experiments and results. When writing your report, you can either write out your findings from your experiments or display them using graphs or charts .

*As you are gathering information, keep a working bibliography of where you found your sources. Look under “Citing Sources” for more information. This will save you a lot of time in the long run!

Organizing Information

Most people find it hard to just take all the information they have gathered from their research and write it out in paper form. It is hard to get a starting point and go from the beginning to the end. You probably have several ideas you know you want to put in your paper, but you may be having trouble deciding where these ideas should go. Organizing your information in a way where new thoughts can be added to a subtopic at any time is a great way to organize the information you have about your topic. Here are two of the more popular ways to organize information so it can be used in a research paper:

  • Graphic organizers such as a web or mind map . Mind maps are basically stating the main topic of your paper, then branching off into as many subtopics as possible about the main topic. Enchanted Learning has a list of several different types of mind maps as well as information on how to use them and what topics fit best for each type of mind map and graphic organizer.
  • Sub-Subtopic: Low temperatures and adequate amounts of snow are needed to form glaciers.
  • Sub-Subtopic: Glaciers move large amounts of earth and debris.
  • Sub-Subtopic: Two basic types of glaciers: valley and continental.
  • Subtopic: Icebergs – large masses of ice floating on liquid water

Different Formats For Your Paper

Depending on your topic and your writing preference, the layout of your paper can greatly enhance how well the information on your topic is displayed.

1. Process . This method is used to explain how something is done or how it works by listing the steps of the process. For most science fair projects and science experiments, this is the best format. Reports for science fairs need the entire project written out from start to finish. Your report should include a title page, statement of purpose, hypothesis, materials and procedures, results and conclusions, discussion, and credits and bibliography. If applicable, graphs, tables, or charts should be included with the results portion of your report.

2. Cause and effect . This is another common science experiment research paper format. The basic premise is that because event X happened, event Y happened.

3. Specific to general . This method works best when trying to draw conclusions about how little topics and details are connected to support one main topic or idea.

4. Climatic order . Similar to the “specific to general” category, here details are listed in order from least important to most important.

5. General to specific . Works in a similar fashion as the method for organizing your information. The main topic or subtopic is stated first, followed by supporting details that give more information about the topic.

6. Compare and contrast . This method works best when you wish to show the similarities and/or differences between two or more topics. A block pattern is used when you first write about one topic and all its details and then write about the second topic and all its details. An alternating pattern can be used to describe a detail about the first topic and then compare that to the related detail of the second topic. The block pattern and alternating pattern can also be combined to make a format that better fits your research paper.

Citing Sources

When writing a research paper, you must cite your sources! Otherwise you are plagiarizing (claiming someone else’s ideas as your own) which can cause severe penalties from failing your research paper assignment in primary and secondary grades to failing the entire course (most colleges and universities have this policy). To help you avoid plagiarism, follow these simple steps:

  • Find out what format for citing your paper your teacher or curriculum wishes you to use. One of the most widely used and widely accepted citation formats by scholars and schools is the Modern Language Association (MLA) format. We recommended that you do an Internet search for the most recent format of the citation style you will be using in your paper.
  • Keep a working bibliography when researching your topic. Have a document in your computer files or a page in your notebook where you write down every source that you found and may use in your paper. (You probably will not use every resource you find, but it is much easier to delete unused sources later rather than try to find them four weeks down the road.) To make this process even easier, write the source down in the citation format that will be used in your paper. No matter what citation format you use, you should always write down title, author, publisher, published date, page numbers used, and if applicable, the volume and issue number.
  • When collecting ideas and information from your sources, write the author’s last name at the end of the idea. When revising and formatting your paper, keep the author’s last name attached to the end of the idea, no matter where you move that idea. This way, you won’t have to go back and try to remember where the ideas in your paper came from.
  • There are two ways to use the information in your paper: paraphrasing and quotes. The majority of your paper will be paraphrasing the information you found. Paraphrasing is basically restating the idea being used in your own words.   As a general rule of thumb, no more than two of the original words should be used in sequence when paraphrasing information, and similes should be used for as many of the words as possible in the original passage without changing the meaning of the main point. Sometimes, you may find something stated so well by the original author that it would be best to use the author’s original words in your paper. When using the author’s original words, use quotation marks only around the words being directly quoted and work the quote into the body of your paper so that it makes sense grammatically. Search the Internet for more rules on paraphrasing and quoting information.

Revising and Editing Your Paper

Revising your paper basically means you are fixing grammatical errors or changing the meaning of what you wrote. After you have written the rough draft of your paper, read through it again to make sure the ideas in your paper flow and are cohesive. You may need to add in information, delete extra information, use a thesaurus to find a better word to better express a concept, reword a sentence, or just make sure your ideas are stated in a logical and progressive order.

After revising your paper, go back and edit it, correcting the capitalization, punctuation, and spelling errors – the mechanics of writing. If you are not 100% positive a word is spelled correctly, look it up in a dictionary. Ask a parent or teacher for help on the proper usage of commas, hyphens, capitalization, and numbers. You may also be able to find the answers to these questions by doing an Internet search on writing mechanics or by checking you local library for a book on writing mechanics.

It is also always a good idea to have someone else read your paper. Because this person did not write the paper and is not familiar with the topic, he or she is more likely to catch mistakes or ideas that do not quite make sense. This person can also give you insights or suggestions on how to reword or format your paper to make it flow better or convey your ideas better.

More Information:

  • Quick Science Fair Guide
  • Science Fair Project Ideas

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How to Write a Convincing Science Fair Research Proposal

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For students interested in the STEM fields, there are many extracurriculars to choose from. You might join the Math or Science Olympiad team, you could join the Computer Science Club, or you could even volunteer as a naturalist at a local conservation area.

If you are interested in scientific research, you might pursue the opportunity to secure a research assistant position or shadow various scientific researchers. But if you truly want to take the helm and guide your own research, your path may lead you to participating in the science fair.

The science fair is a traditional component of many high school science programs, with participation ranging widely from school to school and science fair to science fair. At some schools, the science fair might be a rite of passage expected of every student. At others, it attracts a handful of dedicated science die-hards.

Regardless, most science fairs feature presentations by students who have completed experiments, demonstrated scientific principles, or undertaken an engineering challenge. Participants are judged by a panel of experts who score each presentation according to a rubric. Traditionally, awards are presented for the top-scoring projects. 

There are many science fairs beyond school-sponsored fairs, too. Regional, state, national, and even international fairs are open to students who qualify through their schools and work their way up through the science fair circuit. Others, like the Regeneron Science Talent Search, are open through an intensive application process.

If you are considering entering a project in the science fair, you will need to think carefully about your subject matter, your experimental design, and the relevance of your work before committing to a project. Many science fairs will even require that you complete a formal research proposal to demonstrate the level of thinking you’ve put into your experiment before beginning it.

In this post, we will outline the purpose of a research proposal for the science fair, the common elements of such a proposal, and how you can go about writing a comprehensive research proposal that is sure to impress.

What is the Purpose of a Research Proposal?

A research proposal has three primary purposes. The first purpose is to explain what you intend to do. This is essentially what you will do in your experiment or project, summarized into a basic overview.

The second function of a research proposal is to explain how you intend to accomplish this. You will give a brief summary of the methods and techniques that you intend to employ, and list the materials that you will need to do so.

The final point of a research proposal is to explain why this project should be done. Here, you will discuss the important or relevance of this study. Basically, in this portion of your proposal you’ll answer the question, “so what?”

Now that you know the aim of a research proposal, you can begin to prepare to write one. -->

Step-By-Step Guide to Creating a Research Proposal

1. narrow down the subject area..

Before you go into your project in any sort of depth, you’ll need a fairly good idea of what your project’s focus will be. In order to narrow this down, you should consider a few different angles.

First, ask yourself what you’re interested in. You will be more likely to feel engaged and passionate about a project that is genuinely interesting to you, so take some time to carefully consider the areas of science that you find the most fascinating. Even if they don’t seem particularly well-suited to a science fair project at first, you never know what you might be able to come up with through some collaboration with mentors or through some background research. Keep a running list of areas of science that sincerely fascinate you.

Next, consider any specialized labs or equipment to which you might have access. Does your best friend’s mother work in a lab with highly specialized tools? Does your school have a state-of-the-art wind tunnel or fully equipped greenhouse? These are all possible resources you can utilize if you want your project to truly stand out. Of course, it’s completely possible to choose a project that shines on its own without any specialized equipment, but if you’re looking for every boost you might get, having access to specialized technology can be a great advantage to make your project truly unique.

Finally, consider if you know a teacher or other professional who might be willing to mentor you. You can also seek out a mentor specifically if you can’t think of anyone obvious. Having a mentor in your field will provide you with invaluable insight into practice and past research in the field.

In the ideal world, you would find a project that maximizes all of your resources, including your interests, access to equipment, and an enthusiastic mentor. Don’t worry if you can’t secure all three, though. Plenty of science fair participants go on to do quite well relying on only their own dogged determination and commitment to their subject matter.

2 . Decide How Your Experiment Will Be Done

If you have a mentor, teacher, or adviser willing to consult with you, schedule a time to sit down with them and discuss what you’d like to do. If you can’t find someone more experienced than you, even discussing your ideas with a trusted classmate, parent, or older sibling is a good idea. Sometimes the outside perspective will help to fine-tune your design or identify areas for improvement.

You should also begin some research at this stage to learn how similar projects have been conducted in the past. Use the results and limitations from these experiments to help guide your own experimental design.

As you do so, keep in mind any limiting factors. Remember to consider what equipment you have at your disposal, the time commitment you’re able to make, and the materials that you’ll need to acquire.

In addition, be sure to check the rules of the specific science fairs you’ll be attending. Some have strict regulations designed to keep you safe, like limiting the ways in which potentially hazardous chemicals can be used. Other rules are designed to keep the environment safe, like placing restrictions on how you dispose of foreign substances or non-native species. There are also ethical rules that govern the use of human participants or vertebrate animals in your studies. Make sure to check which rules govern the fair in which you’re participating and how they might impact your ideas before you put any more thought into your project.

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3. Background Research

Your background research should be fairly comprehensive at this point and will be the single largest component of your research proposal. You should focus on your research on relevant past studies that inform your work either by identifying areas for future research or by identifying limiting factors in their own research. You should also research past experiments that support or attempt to disprove your working theory.

Finally, your research should clearly show why the project is relevant. What is important about it? What does it add to the field? Why should we care? Make sure that you can communicate the scientific value of the project you’re proposing.

4. Write Your Proposal

Once you’ve chosen a project, decided how you’ll undertake it, and done the relevant background research, you are finally able to begin drafting your research proposal. Check with your school or science fair to see if there is a specific format or form that you’re required to adhere to. If not, and you are producing a general research proposal, follow this format:

This should be a one-paragraph description of the project, your hypothesis, and the goals of your experiment. Here, you provide a brief overview of your project for anyone who is skimming your work.

Introduction/Literature Review:

This is the bulk of your proposal. In your literature review, you present what is currently known about your project’s focus and summarize relevant research that has been done in the field. You will discuss previous discoveries in your field, including how they were made and what they lend to your current work.

You will also show what is interesting and ground-breaking about your research idea. In this section you will need to summarize why your project is relevant, what makes it important, and how the field or current base of knowledge could change or be improved due to your project’s results.

As you write your literature review, you’ll need to be sure that you’re using high-quality, accurate sources. It’s best to rely on scholarly journal articles or reference books. Be wary of using the Internet, as many sources are unverified. If you are using online resources, be sure to verify their source. Published, peer-reviewed scholarly articles are best.

It’s also important to include proper citations for every source cited. You’ll need to list all your sources in the appropriate format in your bibliography along with citing them in the text of your proposal when you quote directly or reference specific data. If you aren’t sure how to cite properly, check out the Scientific Style and Format page.

Hypothesis:

This is the working theory that you are testing and what you expect the results will be, based off what you have learned through your background research.

Materials and Methods:

In this section you’ll provide a precise, in depth description of how you plan to test your hypothesis and what tools or materials you’ll need to do so. Summarize your experimental design, specifically referring to how you will control and replicate the experiment. Also list the equipment and materials that you will need for undertaking your experiment.

Conclusion:

Here, you will reiterate how your proposed research will advance knowledge in the scientific field and outline any potential longterm impact that your work could have on theory or practice within the field.

Bibliography:

List all sources used in appropriate format. Refer to the Scientific Style and Format page if you aren’t sure how to do so.

What Happens After I Submit a Research Proposal?

After you submit the research proposal, it will be reviewed by your teacher or a science fair administrator or adviser. It will be approved, rejected, or returned for revisions based on its feasibility, value to the scientific field, and adherence to the science fair rules and regulations.

While larger, more selective science fairs will have to select only a limited number of candidates based on the merits of their research proposals, it is fairly uncommon for a science fair research proposal to get completely denied at the school level. Usually, in these cases, your proposal will be returned to you with requests for edits or further clarification. You have most likely consulted with your teacher or adviser throughout the process of developing your proposal, so nothing should come as a complete surprise when you receive feedback.

If your proposal is rejected and you don’t receive constructive feedback, don’t be shy about respectfully requesting some feedback to help you shape a better, more effective proposal in the future.

If your proposal is returned for revisions, you should feel encouraged. While you still have some work to do, this is generally a sign that with a few tweaks, your proposal will be accepted. Meet with a teacher, mentor, or adviser to review the revisions requested and address each thoroughly before returning the proposal for another round of review.

If your proposal is accepted, congratulations! It’s time to get to work. While your proposal itself was probably a time-consuming endeavor, your research will ultimately be easier for having taken the time and care to craft a precise proposal. Your research will be more focused and likely a smoother process due to all your careful planning, and you will be able to use large chunks of your written work in your final scientific report.

Don’t be intimidated if you’re getting ready to write a science fair research proposal. It can be a long process to fine-tune your project and focus your proposed research, but the work that you put in now ultimately makes your job easier in the long run.

Looking for help navigating the road to college as a high school student? Download our  free guide for 9th graders  and our  free guide for 10th graders . Our guides go in-depth about subjects ranging from  academics ,  choosing courses ,  standardized tests ,  extracurricular activities ,  and much more !

For more information about the science fair and opportunities for students interested in the STEM fields, see these valuable CollegeVine posts:

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Every great science project includes the same basic activities:

  • Identifying a testable question . The question should be answerable, using affordable materials and methods that are both safe and feasible.
  • Testing each variable  in an experiment more than once. Repeated testing will ensure you have enough data to make valid conclusions.
  • Testing only one variable at a time . This approach allows you to identify and measure the effect of each variable individually.
  • Data gathering and recording . Data include measurements and observations.
  • Graphing data , and then identifying trends in the data. That will help support your conclusion.

This  science fair project guide  published by Science Buddies can help you get started. This 15-minute  animated video , by a young artist named Kevin Temmer, provides a great introduction to preparing for a science fair.

Now that you know what to do, choose a topic and then:

  • Research the topic . This means becoming a mini-expert on the topic.
  • Organize . This includes stating the question you want to answer.
  • Create a timetable . Research takes planning, pacing and usually much more time than you expect.
  • Make a research plan . This is a roadmap of the questions you will have to answer as you design, conduct and interpret your experiment.
  • Review rules , and have an adult review and approve your experiment if necessary. Every science fair requires students to follow a set of rules. For example, here are the rules for Regeneron ISEF competition for high school students. Some projects also require the review and approval of an adult. These can include projects involving hazardous or potentially hazardous substances and devices, or live animals (including people).
  • Construct a hypothesis.  This is an educated guess about how something will work. An experiment will test your hypothesis.
  • Conduct the experiment . You will have to repeat it multiple times, following the same procedure each time.
  • Record results . This means collecting your measurements and observations.
  • Analyze results . Review your data, using charts and graphs to help interpret them.
  • Draw conclusions . Your data will either support or refute your original hypothesis.
  • Present results . You can share the results of your experiment through an abstract, or brief summary. You may also present your results in a research paper or on a presentation board.

Project Timing

Each of the above steps will take time — more than you may think at first. Making a timetable will help you plan. Be ambitious but realistic. That means making sure that the topic you choose not only interests you but also can be researched in the amount of time you have. Once you have identified your testable question, next develop a timeline to manage how you will test it. Build into your project some extra time to accommodate unexpected problems. These might include taking a big test, getting the flu or having to leave town for a family event.

If you will be taking part in a large science fair, you may have to fill out entry forms and review your research plan with your sponsor. Allow time for that. Certain projects will require more time because they need prior approval from a Scientific Review Committee (SRC) or an Institutional Review Board (IRB). Budget time for that. And allow plenty of time to experiment and collect data. Sometimes experiments don’t work. Sometimes experiments raise more questions than they answer — and require even more experimenting. This all takes time. Finally, you may have to write a paper that pulls together your findings. Or you may need to create a display or poster that presents your data and findings.

Project Support

Creating an independent research project doesn’t mean you can’t ask for help. Parents, teachers, experts and other students may offer to help you on your project. Figuring out what kind of help is fair — and what type of help is not — can be tricky. Below are several stories from  Science News for Kids  that help offer guidance on that issue.

Many students find a mentor to help them refine what questions to ask and how to answer them. Ideally, a mentor should never tell you what to do (even if you ask). Instead, a good mentor will help you find information that will inform your decisions on what to do and how to do it. For example, this story from Science News for Students gives examples of the proper roles played by mentors. This  article discusses the advantages of working with a mentor. Meanwhile, we feature in this story  the rewarding example of a young student who had the courage to contact an outside expert in the topic he was researching.

Parents and teachers can play a role too. Parents and teachers may offer advice and give assistance, but they must not do any of the actual work on a research project.. For instance, they may help you map out the time you have available to do your work. Parents and teachers also can evaluate whether the project you want to do can be done in the time available. They also can help determine whether supplies will cost more than you can afford, or whether what you plan to do might be dangerous or require approval from others. Here are two links to SNK stories that expand on this topic.

This Science News for Students article  features what parents learned about their role in helping on science fair projects. And this story  highlights teachers sharing the roles they played.

Presentation and Competition

Once you have completed your experiment, analyzed your results and drawn your conclusions, there is still more to do: You must communicate your findings. You also should be prepared to discuss your project, answering any questions that judges, teachers or others might have about how and why you tested or developed something the way you did and how to interpret your findings.

There are many different ways to present the results of your research. Remember: Presenting results doesn’t mean performing, demonstrating or repeating your experiment. Instead, you should prepare:

  • A research paper. This gathers in one document all the work you have done on your project. The contents will vary, but should include a title, table of contents, hypothesis, background research, materials, procedures, data analysis, conclusions and a bibliography. You might also include ideas for future research and acknowledgements.
  • An abstract, or brief summary of your research paper. An abstract typically includes the purpose of the experiment, procedures used, results and conclusion. You also may want to include an introduction. Science Buddies offers this concise guide to writing an abstract .
  • A project or display board .  The board includes much of the same information as in your research paper. However, it is designed for display and brevity. That means it must be organized and laid out in a way that makes it easy to read — even by someone standing a short distance away. Again, Science Buddies provides some clear  guidelines for preparing a board. For most science fairs, there are complex and strict rules that govern what a board must (and cannot) include. For example, review the  Regeneron ISEF Display and Safety Regulations .

When presenting your work, it can be helpful to keep in mind what judges look for in reviewing the entries in a science fair. Even if you don’t plan to compete, these criteria can help you focus in creating a presentation of your work. Some of the criteria include originality and creativity, design and methodology, knowledge achieved, and clarity of expression.

For more examples of what judges look for, review the Regeneron ISEF Judging Criteria .  You can also try searching on the Internet for “science fair judging criteria.” You can narrow your search by adding, for example, the name of your state. SSP-Affiliate Fairs are listed in a Find-A-Fair index by state; many have websites with details about registration, judging and past winners.

science fair research paper ideas

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Introduction

1. get your idea and do some research, 2. ask a testable question, 3. design and conduct your experiment, 4. examine your results, 5. communicate your experiment and results.

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How to Do a Science Fair Project

To get started on your science fair project, you'll learn to observe the world around you and ask questions about the things you observe.

Observe the world around you and ask questions about the things you observe.

Develop your idea into a question you can test. Your question should follow the format, "How does [input] affect [output]?"

Design your experiment and keep track of the results. Remember to only change one variable and conduct your experiment multiple times for each trial. Each trial should be repeated in exactly the same way.

Now that your experiment is done, it's time to examine your results. You want to look for trends in your results and draw conclusions from those trends. You also want to examine your data for possible influences from factors you didn't consider at first.

Make a poster display that summarizes your experiment so you can share your results. Be sure to include the question you were trying to answer (your hypothesis), the steps you took to answer that question, your results and any factors that may have influenced your results. Your poster should be visually appealing, but also clear about what you did and why people should care.

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The Big List of Science Fair Project Ideas, Resources, and More

Options for every age, interest, and skill level!

Best Science Fair Project Ideas

Science fairs are a rite of passage and something many kids either dread or adore. Whatever the case, there’s no doubt these projects give students a chance to develop all sorts of skills: critical thinking, presentation and public speaking, research and writing, and so much more. Make this year’s fair the best one ever with this huge list of science fair project ideas for every kind of student.

Tips for Choosing a Science Fair Project

Students standing with their science fair project ideas boards

Source: @eriverselementary

With thousands of possible projects, it can be difficult to narrow down something that’s a good fit for every student. Try these tips to help them find the right science fair project ideas.

Match Your Project to Your Interests

This seems obvious, but it’s really helpful for kids who feel overwhelmed by all the choices. It’s also a good way to get reluctant learners more excited about science fair projects. Encourage students to think about what they love to do in their spare time. How can they turn that into a project?

For instance, kids who love sports might explore the most effective stretches for warming up, or methods for throwing a football farther and more accurately. Music lovers can learn how sound waves work, or discover the link between music and emotions. It’s all about starting with something you love.

Challenge Yourself, But Keep It Realistic

Science fair projects need to be something kids can complete by themselves or with adults in support roles only. If a student picks something that’s way beyond their skill level, chances are the parents will wind up doing most of it. That being said, the point of the project is to learn and grow. Aim to learn something new, whether it’s knowledge or skills, by setting measurable goals.

If You Want To Win, Be Innovative

For science fair contests with prizes, the more creative you can be, the better. Projects that address real-world problems with new and interesting solutions often catch the judges’ eye. Be sure to be thorough in your research, and be ready to answer questions about your methods and results. Scientists love asking questions!

Science Fair Project Ideas by Grade

Young student holding a model car in front of their science fair project board

Source: @delphiacademy

Finding an age-appropriate project is an excellent way to help kids succeed. These lists cover every age, pre-K to grade 12. Remember that many simple experiments and demos can become true projects by changing up the methodology to achieve better or different results.

  • Preschool Science Experiments and Activities
  • Kindergarten Science Projects, Activities, and Experiments
  • 1st Grade Science Projects and Activities
  • 2nd Grade Science Experiments and Projects
  • 3rd Grade Science Projects and Activities
  • 4th Grade Science Experiments, Activities, and Projects
  • 5th Grade Science Projects and Experiments
  • 6th Grade Science Experiments, Projects, and Activities
  • 7th Grade Science Fair Projects and Classroom Experiments
  • 8th Grade Science Fair Projects and Classroom Experiments
  • High School Science Experiments for Labs and Science Fairs

Science Fair Project Ideas by Interest

Two middle school girls standing in front of their science fair project board about Fish Cams

Source: @project.learn.community

Since most projects can be tweaked to be suitable for any age, it’s best to urge kids to pick projects that really interest them. These roundups offer ideas for various interests in disciplines ranging from bio and chemistry to physics and environmental science.

  • Anatomy Science Projects and Activities
  • Animal Habitat Activities and Projects
  • Balloon Science Experiments and Projects
  • Climate Change Activities and Project Ideas
  • Electricity Experiments and Science Projects
  • Ocean Experiments, Projects, and Activities
  • Plant Life Cycle Projects and Experiments
  • Science Projects for Learning About Germs
  • Space Science Experiments and Activities
  • Volcano Science Experiments and Project Kits
  • Weather Activities and Science Projects

STEM Challenge Science Fair Projects

Student standing with her science fair project board on the mandela effect

Source: @qmsduncan

For students especially interested in physics or engineering, STEM challenges can lead to amazing science fair project ideas. Check out these lists for engaging challenges, and watch the learning grow.

  • Kindergarten STEM Challenges for Little Learners
  • 1st Grade STEM Challenges Kids Will Love
  • 2nd Grade STEM Challenges To Encourage Creative Thinking
  • 3rd Grade STEM Challenges for Scientific Learning
  • 4th Grade STEM Challenges That Make Learning Fun
  • 5th Grade STEM Challenges for Hands-On Exploration
  • STEM Challenges That Use Ordinary Office Supplies

Engaging Reluctant Science Fair Participants

Girl standing with her science fair project board about nail polish

Source: @aubkov

Let’s face it: Not every kid gets excited about the idea of a science fair. But with the right science fair project ideas, you can draw in even the most reluctant learners. Try some of these options.

  • Edible Science Projects You’ll Actually Want to Eat : There’s something about getting to eat your project that excites nearly every kid.
  • Wet and Wild Outdoor Science Activities and Experiments : Get kids out of the classroom and let them make a mess outdoors. Perfect for kinesthetic learners!
  • 60 Easy Science Experiments Using Materials You Already Have On Hand : While you always want kids to challenge themselves as they learn, that doesn’t mean their science fair project needs to be incredibly complicated. These simple activities with household materials help students learn too.
  • 50 Ste m Activities To Help Kids Think Outside the Box : These fun, quick, hands-on projects are perfect for creative thinkers.

More Science Fair Resources

Choosing a project is just the first part of the process. Find more useful tips and project help here.

  • Free Printable: Scientific Method Graphic Organizer
  • An Easy Way To Create Science Fair Project Boards
  • Free Bulletin Board Kit That Teaches Students to “Think Like an Inventor”

Want to talk to other science teachers about running a school science fair? Join the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook to exchange ideas and ask for advice!

Plus, the best science websites for middle and high school ..

Need science fair project ideas? Find them here for every grade and interest, plus tips and resources for making your project stand out.

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  • Science Fair/Term Paper Ideas for Creation vs. Evolution

Science Fair/Term Paper Ideas for Creation vs. Evolution

Students of all ages frequently ask for ideas on how to tie in principles from RTB’s testable creation model to their research projects. So I’ve compiled a list (with help from volunteer apologist Virginia Peterson, who researched links) to help get your creative juices flowing.

Anthropology (Human Origins)

  • Examine the behaviors (fire-building, toolmaking) and key pieces of evidence (bones, tools, DNA) related to a major hominid species ( Neanderthals , Homo habilis, Homo erectus). How many specimens have been found? How solid is this evidence? How might this hominid be viewed from a testable creation model perspective?
  • Explore one or more of the ways (via genetics , tool use, anatomy) Neanderthals differ from modern humans (descendants of Adam and Eve; Homo sapiens sapiens).
  • Discuss example(s) of early human artistic expression (e.g., cave painting , jewelry-making, worship figurines ). How might such activity be viewed as an expression of humans being created in God’s image (Gen. 1:26–27)?
  • Summarize some of the problems with the evolutionary “family tree” for human origins. Does the evidence show a gradual evolution from lesser species to modern humans or does it show a sudden appearance?
  • Discuss the historical development of the big bang model. What prevailing model did scientists generally accept before the big bang ? Why were secular scientists resistant to the big bang model at first? Why are some scientists still skeptical?
  • Investigate one major design feature of the solar system that allows complex life to exist on Earth.
  • How does the moon creation event show finetuning and design? How did the moon collision change the earth and prepare it for life? What role does the moon play in sustaining life on Earth?
  • How is our sun unique , and what is its role in sustaining life on Earth?
  • What are the various types of galaxies? Why is it important that Earth reside in a spiral galaxy?
  • What is the “cosmological constant”? Why might it be considered powerful evidence for supernatural design?
  • Is “junk DNA” legitimate evidence for evolutionary descent from a common ancestor? Chemistry and the Origin-of-Life
  • Does the famous Miller-Urey experiment provide an accurate reflection of early Earth’s conditions?

Earth Science

  • Explain the importance of one natural disaster ( earthquakes , hurricanes) in sustaining life on Earth.
  • Describe how one “biodeposit” formed and is used today. How might biodeposits imply forethought on the Creator’s part to help facilitate our high-tech human society?

Fossil Record

  • Summarize one scientific challenge to biological evolution (e.g., temporal paradox, lack of transitional forms).
  • Explore one “transitional form” that is cited as support for evolution (e.g., Archaeopteryx, fish-amphibian transitions , Neanderthals). How might this species be viewed from a creation model perspective? Does a creature with both fish-like features and land animal features mean it’s a transitional form and, therefore, evolution is true?
  • Discuss one major extinction event (e.g., dinosaurs ). When did it happen? What other life-forms were affected? What caused the extinction? How quickly did the planet repopulate? What kinds of life replaced the extinct species?
  • Highlight a famous Christian scientist (e.g., Kepler, Galileo, Copernicus, Newton, Francis Collins). How did his worldview influence his science?
  • Explore the spiritual life of Charles Darwin. What role did his daughter’s death play in the development of his views about God, evil, and creation?
  • Some ideas listed here are more challenging than others, but they can be simplified to fit your student’s education level. For additional resources, visit RTB’s website and click on “Topics.”

This article was originally published in the New Reasons To Believe e-zine.

Reading the Outside of the Box

Reading the Outside of the Box

science fair research paper ideas

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Okay, this is the hardest part of the whole project…picking your topic. But here are some ideas to get you started. Even if you don’t like any, they may inspire you to come up with one of your own. Remember, check all project ideas with your teacher and parents, and don’t do any project that would hurt or scare people or animals. Good luck!

  • Does music affect on animal behavior?
  • Does the color of food or drinks affect whether or not we like them?
  • Where are the most germs in your school? ( CLICK for more info. )
  • Does music have an affect on plant growth?
  • Which kind of food do dogs (or any animal) prefer best?
  • Which paper towel brand is the strongest?
  • What is the best way to keep an ice cube from melting?
  • What level of salt works best to hatch brine shrimp?
  • Can the food we eat affect our heart rate?
  • How effective are child-proof containers and locks.
  • Can background noise levels affect how well we concentrate?
  • Does acid rain affect the growth of aquatic plants?
  • What is the best way to keep cut flowers fresh the longest?
  • Does the color of light used on plants affect how well they grow?
  • What plant fertilizer works best?
  • Does the color of a room affect human behavior?
  • Do athletic students have better lung capacity?
  • What brand of battery lasts the longest?
  • Does the type of potting soil used in planting affect how fast the plant grows?
  • What type of food allow mold to grow the fastest?
  • Does having worms in soil help plants grow faster?
  • Can plants grow in pots if they are sideways or upside down?
  • Does the color of hair affect how much static electricity it can carry? (test with balloons)
  • How much weight can the surface tension of water hold?
  • Can some people really read someone else’s thoughts?
  • Which soda decays fallen out teeth the most?
  • What light brightness makes plants grow the best?
  • Does the color of birdseed affect how much birds will eat it?
  • Do natural or chemical fertilizers work best?
  • Can mice learn? (you can pick any animal)
  • Can people tell artificial smells from real ones?
  • What brands of bubble gum produce the biggest bubbles?
  • Does age affect human reaction times?
  • What is the effect of salt on the boiling temperature of water?
  • Does shoe design really affect an athlete’s jumping height?
  • What type of grass seed grows the fastest?
  • Can animals see in the dark better than humans?

Didn’t see one you like? Don’t worry…look over them again and see if they give you an idea for your own project that will work for you. Remember, find something that interests you, and have fun with it.

To download and print this list of ideas CLICK HERE .

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25 Science Projects Ideas From Easy to Hard

science fair research paper ideas

By Alex Yang

Graduate student at Southern Methodist University

14 minute read

Science fairs can be invaluable experiences that help you explore a specific topic and also teach you the principles of scientific discovery. They also offer opportunities for you to showcase your creativity and can be a great springboard to further academic or career pursuits in STEM. An added bonus is that you usually have a finished product that you can proudly showcase to others and put on your resume.

However, it’s easy to get stuck on what science fair project to do as there are so many ideas to choose from. In this article we’ll go over 25 science fair project ideas that can hopefully provide some inspiration and also don’t require fancy or expensive materials.

1. How Different Types of Light Affect Vitamin C Content in Fruits

This project involves studying how different light sources affect the vitamin C content of fruits. You can expose samples of  different fruits to varied light conditions, including natural sunlight, LED, and fluorescent light. Then, using some potassium iodide and a sheet of watercolor paper, you can measure the vitamin C content of the fruits. Here’s an article and video to help you with the vitamin C test .

Difficulty: Easy

Topic: Chemistry 

Materials Needed: Fruits, light sources, ​​3% aque­ous so­lu­tion of io­dine in potas­si­um io­dide, a sheet of wa­ter­col­or pa­per, a cot­ton ball, a dis­pos­able plas­tic cup.

2. The Effects of Exercise on Heart Rate

This project investigates how different types of exercise impact heart rate. By measuring heart rate before, during, and after activities such as running, cycling, and jumping jacks, you can analyze how the heart and body responds to exercise and which movements push your heart rate the most. You can then do further research into the science behind why certain exercises lead to a higher heart rate than others.

Topic: Kinesiology

Materials Needed: Stopwatch, heart rate monitor or pulse oximeter if you have one (if not you can just count your heartbeats)

3. The Aerodynamics of Paper Airplanes

Learn about aerodynamic principles by observing the flight of paper airplanes. By constructing paper airplanes with different designs, including variations in wing shape, size, and folding techniques, you can analyze their flight performance and see what design flies the farthest or is airborne for the longest. After testing, you can explore further by presenting why the top design did well based on theories of aerodynamics, and how you would make the design even better.

Topics: Aerodynamics, physics

Materials Needed: Paper, ruler, tape, stopwatch.

4. How Sleep Impacts Academic Performance 

You can use yourself or your friends as test subjects for this experiment, where you analyze the correlation between sleep duration and academic performance. You can collect sleep data through your phone or a smart watch, and then have all test subjects take a test the next morning, and to repeat that for several days potentially. What’s important for this kind of experiment is that there are many other factors that could potentially impact test performance besides sleep, so in your experimental design you’ll have to think creatively to control other variables.

Difficulty: Medium

Topics: Psychology, neuroscience

Materials Needed: Phone or smartwatch, tests that you can give to subjects

5. How Urban Green Spaces Impact Mental Well-being 

Conduct surveys or interviews in a city near you to assess the perceived benefits of urban green spaces (parks, gardens, etc.) on residents' mental health and well-being. Try to gain an understanding for why these spaces matter and how residents view them. How do parks and gardens impact the day to day life of city dwellers?

Topics: Psychology, urban planning

Materials Needed: Phone to record interviews

6. Design Your Own Hydroponic System 

Construct a homemade hydroponic system using recycled materials and test its effectiveness. Hydroponics is soilless gardening that can be done either indoors or outdoors. Once you’ve made your hydroponic system you can then compare the growth rates and yields of the plants  with traditional soil-based cultivation methods. Here’s an article on how to build a simple hydroponic , but we encourage you to also do your own research while building!

Difficulty: Hard

Topics: Biology

Materials Needed: Recycled materials, twine, soda bottle, other inexpensive materials

7. Mindfulness to Reduce Smartphone Addiction 

Investigate whether mindfulness exercises such as meditation can help reduce smartphone addiction. You can choose to focus on a particular mindfulness exercise and/or participant demographic. You can then lead these mindfulness exercises for participants and also measure participants' smartphone usage over a certain period of time. There are a ton of different choices you can make in terms of designing this experiment, so feel free to be creative with it!

Topics: Psychology

Materials Needed: Smartphones

8. Memory Enhancement Techniques 

Compare the effectiveness of various memory enhancement techniques. You can start by researching popular techniques such as mnemonics, spaced repetition, and mind mapping so that you develop an understanding of how these techniques work. Then you can begin experimenting by gathering a group of subjects and creating a memory test. Remember to control other variables that could impact your data and carefully think through your experimental design. 

Topics: Psychology 

Materials Needed: None 

9. Build a Model Roller Coaster

If you’re a big fan of amusement parks this could be a great project for you. Design and construct a model roller coaster using materials like cardboard, foam tubes, and marbles. You can experiment with factors like height and angles to see what creates the most velocity for the coaster. Be sure to document how specific changes in factors affect the outcome of the roller coaster ride!

Topics: Physics

Materials Needed: Cardboard, foam tubes, marbles

10. Build a Model Suspension Bridge 

Start out by sketching your bridge design on paper and looking up images of real suspension bridges for inspiration. From there you can begin to use your popsicle sticks and glue to construct the bridge. If you’re a bit stuck on how to prepare and construct the bridge, check out this Youtube video on how to build a suspension bridge . Once you’re done building your bridge you can then begin to test its stability and how it holds under pressure!

Materials Needed: Popsicle sticks or craft sticks (for the bridge deck and towers), string or thin wire (for the suspension cables), glue (such as wood glue or hot glue) scissors or craft knife, ruler or measuring tape, cardboard or sturdy base for the bridge foundation (optional) 

11. Build a Wind Turbine to Generate Electricity

Through this project you’ll gain hands-on experience with learning about renewable energy. You’ll start out by designing the turbine blades and frame, then install the generator and wire the generator. Once you’ve built your wind turbine you’ll want to test it in an environment with sufficient wind speed and observe how much electricity you’re able to generate! You can also experiment with the shape of the frame and blades to see if that changes the electrical output.

Topics: Physics, engineering, renewable energy

Materials Needed: PVC pipes or wooden dowels (for the turbine blades), DC motor or small generator, magnets, copper wire, bearings or bushings, PVC fittings or other materials for constructing the turbine, wire connectors, multimeter (for measuring voltage and current)

12. Analyzing Different Water Purification Methods 

What would be the safest way to purify water if you were out in the wild? Evaluate the effectiveness of different water purification methods (filtration, boiling, chemical treatment, etc.) and discover which method performs the best. To test the initial quality of the water samples, use pH strips to find the initial pH of the water. Then perform the water purification method and measure the pH after to see if there’s a considerable change.

Topics: Chemistry

Materials Needed: Water source, containers to hold water, filtration materials like coffee filters, boiling apparatus, pH test strips

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13. How Soil Moisture Affects Plant Growth 

Experiment with soil moisture levels to see how it affects the growth and development of plants. An easy way to do this would be to buy a lot of the same plant and grow them all at the same time but vary the soil moisture for each plant. You can decide the increments for how much you want to vary the soil by and from there measure plant growth to see if you can find a correlation. This is also a great experiment to apply statistical analysis of your data.

Materials Needed: Plants, soil, water

14. The Impact of Light Pollution on Nocturnal Insect Populations 

In this project you can first explore the concept of light pollution and what its effects are. From there you can research nocturnal insects and learn about their behaviors. The second part of the project involves conducting an experiment to see how nocturnal insect populations vary based on artificial light intensity. You can go to several different locations that have different artificial light intensities to see whether certain locations have a greater abundance of insects or a greater diversity. Keep in mind the tricky part of this experiment is how to collect the insects - there are various methods such as light traps or sticky traps that you can try.

Topics: Biology, zoology

15. Build a Solar Oven

Construct a solar oven using reflective materials such as aluminum foil. You can explore this article that explains step by step how to build the oven, but the basic idea is that you want to line the inner flap with aluminum foil so that the sun's rays reflect off of it and also create a small opening so that sunlight can come through. You can try heating up food in the middle of the day when the sun is directly overhead to see what happens!

Materials Needed: Reflective material like aluminum foil, insulation (foam board, newspapers), heat-absorbing container, thermometer, food items for cooking.

16. How Temperature Affects Battery Performance

Explore how temperature affects the voltage output and lifespan of batteries. Select a variety of different batteries and expose them to different temperature conditions. You can also vary the length of time that the batteries are left in a given temperature. After, use a voltage meter to measure the output of the batteries. How does temperature impact the voltage output?

Topics: Electrochemistry, energy storage

Materials Needed: Multiple types of batteries, thermometer or temperature sensor, voltage meter or multimeter.

17. Testing the Strength of Different Types of Paper 

Compare the strength of various types of paper (printer paper, construction paper, tissue paper). To do this you can either measure the force required to tear each type of paper ( tensile strength ) or just observe how difficult it is to tear. Record observations and also analyze the materials used in each type of paper to hypothesize why the paper might be difficult or easy to tear.

Materials Needed: Different types of paper, ruler or measuring tape, weights or force gauge, clamps or clips.

18. Pendulums

In this project, construct your own basic pendulum with string and a weight, and see how the length of a pendulum affects its period (the time it takes to complete one full swing). You can also conduct trials where pendulums of varying lengths are released from the same angle, or vary the angle from which the pendulum is released. 

Materials Needed: Pendulum apparatus (can be as simple as a string and weight), stopwatch or timer, protractor for measuring angles.

19. DIY Catapults 

In this project you’ll explore the principles of projectile motion and trajectory. Build a simple catapult or trebuchet and investigate how launch angle and projectile mass affect the trajectory of a launched object. If you want to take the project a step further and add a history component to it, explore a few various catapults that were used in ancient or medieval times and observe the differences in their launch angles and typical projectile masses. Were these catapults effective?

Materials Needed: Catapult or trebuchet construction materials (wood, rubber bands, etc.), objects that the catapult can launch, measuring tape or ruler.

20. Friction 

Explore the concept of friction by pulling objects across different surfaces and measuring the frictional force. You can investigate how different surface textures impact how easy it is to pull the object across the surface. To take the project to the next level you can share your findings about one real world application where the concept of friction is very important (think things like sports or transportation). 

Materials Needed: Objects of different weights, various surfaces (e.g., wood, metal, sandpaper), force sensor or spring scale, ruler

21. Studying the Effects of Music on Stress Reduction 

We all have our playlists or songs that help us relax, but how can we actually confirm that music actually plays a role in reducing stress? In this project you can conduct experiments where participants listen to different types of music (e.g., classical, jazz, nature sounds) and their physiological stress responses (e.g., heart rate, cortisol levels) are measured before and after listening to the music. Before conducting the experiment see if you can do some preliminary research on the topic and what other experiments have been done. 

Materials Needed: A device to play, physiological monitoring equipment, stress assessment scales.

22. Ocean Acidification and Coral Bleaching 

Study how ocean acidification, driven by increased carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere, impacts coral reef ecosystems. You can also look into coral bleaching and learn how it’s also related to ocean acidification. This project can be a bit more focused on research rather than actual experimentation, but if you’d like to develop a model to demonstrate ocean acidification and see how carbon dioxide affects water we encourage you to do that as well.

Topic: Chemistry, marine biology

Materials Needed: Cups, water, acid base indicator, baking soda, vinegar

23. Studying the Effects of Deforestation on Local Climate Patterns 

Learn how deforestation affects regional climate conditions such as temperature, precipitation, and humidity. Specifically, you can analyze satellite imagery to assess changes in land cover in deforested areas over time. To get you started, check out this article on how scientists have been tracking deforestation in the Amazon for decades .  

Topic: Climate, environmental science

Materials Needed: Satellite imagery or aerial photographs

24. Investigating Sinkholes 

Sinkholes may seem like a chaotic once in a lifetime phenomenon but there are actually geological processes involved in the formation of sinkholes. Explore these processes and their potential hazards to human settlements. To learn further you can research specific areas that are known to have a lot of sinkholes and try to understand why this occurs from a geological perspective.

Topic: Geology

Materials Needed: None

25. How Color Affects Mood and Emotion Description

Explore whether different colors influence people's mood and emotional state. You can design experiments where participants are exposed to different colors through images or objects and their mood responses are measured with self-reported scales or surveys. Analyze data and see if you can find any patterns. The more subjects you have in your experiment the better!

Topic: Psychology

Materials Needed: Images or objects that show mainly one color

How to Showcase Your Science Fair Project

Once you’ve completed your science fair project you can obviously present it at your local or school science fair, but we highly encourage you to also enter your project and findings for a bigger competition. There are so many great regional and national competitions where you can submit your work, and we’ve compiled a list of them below based on science topic. Keep in mind that many of these competitions have very specific submission guidelines, so you might have to adjust the format of your project slightly to fit the rules

Top 8 Neuroscience Competitions for High School and Middle School Students

Top 9 Physics Competitions for High School Students

The 10 Best Chemistry Competitions for High School Students

10 Best Engineering Competitions for High School Students

Top Psychology Competitions For High School and Middle School Students

Still Stuck On What Idea to Choose?

Work with a Polygence research program mentor who can help you brainstorm the right idea for you. From there they can help you with executing your project and making sure you’re on track to finish by your deadline. If you’re interested, apply for our flagship mentorship program !

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50 of the Best Science Fair Project Ideas for Kids

  • February 10, 2021

So you have a science fair coming up at school and want to make a project that’s sure to win a prize ribbon? Well, you’ve come to the right place. Choosing the right project requires plenty of research. That’s why we’ve rounded up the best science fair projects ideas to help you along your search.

50 STEM Experiment Ideas for Kids

These 50 science fair project ideas are all great for kids- early and older elementary school students, with a few suitable for middle school students as well. Make a topic that fascinates you, come up with a hypothesis, and see what happens next!

Plus, once you’ve chosen your topic, use this science fair project how-to video from NASA as a helpful guide.

Important note: Some of these science fair projects require the help or supervision of an adult. Always make sure an older family member is nearby and knows what you’re doing as you work on these projects.

1. With this science fair experiment , you can learn what factors affect melting ice.

2. Try this magic milk experiment for an easy science fair project that younger students can accomplish.

3. How much sun does a seed need to sprout? Discover the answer by trying this project you can easily complete from home.

4. Build your own water clock and see how well you can get it to measure time.

5. If you’re interested in a little microbiology, try out this egg cell experiment .

6. What’s the best way to prevent apples from browning? Find out for yourself and make sure to record the results.

7. Do birds eat more food if it is a certain color? Find out with this intriguing experiment .

8. Discover how clouds turn water vapors into rain and diagram a few common types of clouds through this kid-friendly science fair project .

9. Make your own plant cell model using styrofoam and playdough.

10. Learn about aerodynamics by experimenting with paper airplane shapes and seeing which one flies best.

11. Learn how to accelerate the rusting process with this quick and thought-provoking science project .

12. Want to learn about water and density for your project? Perform this floating egg experiment and try out the follow-up questions at the bottom.

13. This project about bending light is perfect for older elementary school students who want to dip their toes into physics.

14. This biology-based science experiment asks, “Will plants grow towards a specific light source?”

15. Learn about greenhouse gases with this science fair idea .

16. Experiment with what makes fruit ripen quickly and write down your results to present at your science fair.

17. Use this hands-on experiment to explore how carbonated drinks affect teeth.

18. Which factors affect evaporation? Find out for yourself with this project that’s perfect for students who can complete it with a little adult supervision.

19. Find out which types of toothpaste work the best and, after measuring your results, try and come up with a conclusion.

20. If the weather is warm out during your science fair, try building a solar oven .

21. For a simple chemistry project , you can make sugar crystals and see what material works best for growing them.

22. Which common material is the best heat conductor? Find out with this science fair project that can be done with adult supervision, as it needs boiling water.

23. Craft your own thermos bottle and test it out for a project all about insulation.

24. Make a DIY thermometer and test it out for a practical and hands-on science project.

25. Try this celery experiment to learn how plant capillaries work.

26. How does the air temperature affect movement? Try one of these fun science fair project ideas as a model for your own experiment.

27. If you’re passionate about the environment, try this recycling experiment for your science fair project

28. How does paint color affect drying time? Make your predictions and test it out for yourself.

29. Learn which soil is best for growing tomatoes if your science fair takes place during warm weather.

30. Build your own lemon battery and see if you can get it to work to learn about electricity.

31. If you want to try the epitome of science fair projects, try making a science fair volcano.

32. How much sugar is in different popular foods? If you’re interested in health science, try this fascinating experiment .

33. If you’d rather look at prompts and create your own project, use these science fair questions for inspiration.

34. Does music affect plant growth? Discover for yourself with this project .

35. Do you need science fair project ideas that will encourage others to recycle? Learn about how to make your own paper .

36. If you have a few furry friends in your neighborhood, consider testing if dogs are colorblind with this project .

37. How does temperature affect air pressure in a ball? Find out the answer with this sporty science project .

38. Build your own pulley and see what kinds of objects you can make it carry.

39. Learn a little about chemistry with this science fair experiment that asks which paper towels are the most absorbent.

40. What is the dirtiest spot in the average home? Find the answer by cultivating bacteria growth in this experiment .

41. Discover how to test thermal energy by observing water temperature.

42. Can you grow seeds with liquids other than water? Find out with this kid-friendly science experiment .

43. This Sun or Shade science fair projec t is perfect for elementary school students.

44. This cool science fair project asks an intriguing question about insect biology: what sweetener do ants prefer?

45. Make a working model of lungs for a science fair project that’s sure to fascinate.

46. Want to try a science fair project that can only end with tasty treats? Bake some cookies and try one of these sweet experiments .

47. Interested in astronomy? Try out this experiment that teaches why the moon’s shape seems to change every day.

48. What are the effects of disinfectant on germs? Use this science fair project as inspiration for your own.

49. Put your math skills to the test with this science fair project centered around the game tic tac toe.

50. What’s stronger: magnetism or gravity? Find out with this science fair experiment that’s perfect for early elementary students.

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150+ Interesting Science Fair Project Ideas [Updated 2024]

Science Fair Project Ideas

Looks like it is the season of science fairs around the globe. In every high school and college science fares are organised regularly. It is done so as to check the creativity among the students and their understanding of the project.

 All of us compete in that and try to get the best grades.  This is possible when you have a unique and creative project. And for being out of the ordinary you need to select a project that no one has chosen and is different from others. 

So, today you are in for a treat. Get your notebooks and sit attentively to go on a journey of more than 150+ Science Fair Project Ideas. We will be diving into the depth of physics and then conquering the heights of aerodynamics.

Factors To Be Considered Before Selecting A Science Fair Project

Table of Contents

1. Interest And Passion

First thing that is to be considered is what is your interest and passion. Always choose a project idea in which you are personally interested and about which you are really passionate. It is so because it will nourish your creativity in the project.

2. Feasibility and Resources

Choose a project that is feasible for you  and for which resources are available to you. By feasibility we here mean that is possible with your resources and skills you have. Also consider the limitations in your surroundings.

3. Objective

Consider what is the objective you want to achieve by this project. An objective should be clear and possible to achieve.

4. Educational Value

Make sure that your project provides some educational value to you. A major purpose of the project is to make sure that you learn something. It should introduce you to some new concepts and make an addition to your knowledge.

5. Timeframe

Always note the time you need to complete the project. It includes conducting the research for the project, managing the required resources and assembling them to reach the final stage. Pick a project whose time frame suits you and fits in your schedule.

150+ Interesting Science Fair Project ideas for 2024

In this section we will be discussing more than 150 best science fair project ideas according to their categories. Here are they:

Physics Project Ideas

Following are the project ideas based on the Physics for a science fair:

1. Simple Pendulum Experiment: Looking into the factors affecting the period of a pendulum.

2. Newton’s Laws of Motion Demonstrations: Conduct experiments to show Newton’s three laws of motion.

3. Electric Motor Construction: Create a simple electric motor and analyse its operations.

4. Solar-Powered Water Heater: Design and build a solar water heater to study the principles of solar energy.

5. Investigating Magnetic Fields: Explore the properties of magnetic fields and their effects on different materials.

6. Pendulum Harmonics Analysis: Study the harmonic motion of a pendulum and how it is influenced by different variables.

7. Homemade Wind Turbine: Build a small wind turbine and study its efficiency in generating electricity.

8. Quantum Entanglement Experiment: Discover the phenomenon of quantum entanglement and its implications for the nature of reality.

9. Fusion Reactor Prototype: Build a simple fusion reactor and study the principles of nuclear fusion.

10. Gravitational Wave Detection: Make a simple detector for analysing the properties of gravitational waves.

11. Superconductivity Demonstrations: Explore the properties of superconducting materials and its applications.

12. Particle Accelerator Design: Make a simple particle accelerator and note the principles of particle physics.

13. Quantum Computing Algorithms: Discover the principles of quantum computing and design simple quantum algorithms.

14. Cosmic Microwave Background Analysis: Study the properties of the cosmic microwave background and its effects for the Big Bang theory.

15. Exoplanet Detection Using Spectroscopy: Make a simple spectroscope and use it to analyse the properties of exoplanets.

Chemistry Project Ideas

Following are the project ideas related to Chemistry:

16. Electrolysis of Water: Examine hydrogen and oxygen gas production through electrolysis of water with the help of  different electrodes.

17. pH of Household Items: Analyse pH levels of household substances and study their acidic or basic nature.

18. Chemical Kinetics: Study reaction rates by changing concentrations or temperatures of common reactions.

19. Crystal Growing: Grow crystals by using different solutions and study the factors influencing crystal size and structure.

20. Catalyst Efficiency: Check  different catalysts in a reaction to see their effectiveness in speeding up reactions.

21. Chemical Bonding Models: Build molecular models to visualise and understand various types of chemical bonds.

22. Biodegradable Plastics: Workout with creating bioplastics using different natural materials and analyse their decomposition.

23. Food Preservation Methods: Match the effectiveness of various food preservation techniques on preventing spoilage.

24. Photosynthesis Simulation: Simulate photosynthesis using different light wavelengths and CO2 concentrations.

25. Titration Analysis: Study the concentration of acids or bases in various solutions using titration techniques.

26. Chromatography Exploration: Separate pigments in different substances by chromatography and identify their components.

27. Chemiluminescence: Analyse chemical reactions that produce light and their applications in glow sticks or fireflies.

28. Metal Corrosion Study: Examine factors affecting metal corrosion rates in different environments or solutions.

29. Enzyme Activity Investigation: Study the effect of pH or temperature on enzyme activity using various substrates.

30. Redox Reactions and Batteries: Make simple batteries and explore redox reactions powering them.

Biology Project Ideas

Given below is the list of some Biology project ideas:

31. Effects of Different Nutrients on Plant Growth: Study how different nutrients impact plant growth and development.

32. Microbial Growth in Different Environments: Compare microbial growth in various environments (temperature, pH, etc.).

33. Genetic Inheritance: Investigate inheritance patterns by studying traits within a family or breeding organisms.

34. Drug Testing on Microorganisms: Check the effects of different drugs on microbial growth and sensitivity.

35. Behavioral Study on Animals: Look and analyse the behaviour of 3 animals in response to stimuli or environmental changes.

36. Impact of Pollution on Aquatic Life: Analyse the impacts of pollutants on aquatic organisms’ growth, behaviour, and health.

37. Human Physiology: Heart Rate Variability: Measure and analyse heart rate variability under different conditions like resting, exercise and stress.

38. Cellular Respiration in Different Organisms: Analyse the rate of cellular respiration in various organisms or tissues.

39. Effect of Light on Circadian Rhythms: Study the effect of light exposure on the circadian rhythms of different organisms.

40. Antibiotic Resistance in Bacteria: Examine factors contributing to antibiotic resistance in bacterial strains and other microorganisms.

41. Ecological Impact of Invasive Species: Analyse the effects of spreading species on local ecosystems and biodiversity.

42. Effect of Temperature on Enzyme Activity: Measure how temperature changes affect enzymes in living organisms like animals and plants.

43. DNA Extraction from Different Sources: Extract DNA from various sources and compare its outcome and purity.

44. Effect of Music on Plant Growth: Test the influence of different music on plant growth and its health.

45. Bioluminescence in Organisms: Explore organisms that produce bioluminescence and study its mechanism and working.

Earth Science Project Ideas

Now we will be looking at some of the project ideas based on Earth Sciences and they are as:

46. Rock Erosion Simulation: Imitate erosion processes using different types of rocks under various environmental conditions.

47. Volcanic Eruption Models: Build models to simulate volcanic eruptions and analyse eruption patterns and types.

48. Weathering and Soil Composition: Investigate how different weathering processes affect soil composition and fertility.

49. Tectonic Plate Movement: Model plate tectonics using household materials to demonstrate continental drift and earthquakes.

50. Fossil Formation Experiment: Create artificial fossils to understand the process of fossilisation and its timeline.

51. Ocean Acidification Effects: Study the impact of increased CO2 on water pH and its effect on marine life.

52. Groundwater Contamination Study: Simulate groundwater contamination and observe its effects on water quality.

53. Impact Crater Formation: Simulate asteroid impacts to observe the formation and characteristics of impact craters.

54. Climate Change and Glacier Retreat : Investigate the relationship between climate change and glacier melting rates.

55. Tidal Influence on Coastal Erosion: Analyse the impact of tides on erosion along coastal areas and cliffs.

56. Water Cycle Demonstration: Create a model demonstrating the various stages of the water cycle.

57. Agricultural Impact on Soil Quality: Study the effects of different agricultural practices on soil quality and erosion.

58. Geological Time Scale Project: Create a visual representation of the geological time scale with key events.

59. Atmospheric Pressure and Weather: Investigate how changes in atmospheric pressure affect weather patterns.

60. Pollution’s Impact on Watersheds: Analyse how pollution affects watersheds and the surrounding ecosystem.

Engineering Project Ideas

There are numerous project ideas related to Engineering and some of them are as:

61. Bridge Stability Testing: Construct and test different bridge designs for stability and weight-bearing capacity.

62. Renewable Energy Prototype: Build a prototype for a wind turbine or solar-powered device to generate electricity.

63. Robotics Challenge: Create a robot that completes tasks autonomously, such as navigating a maze or picking objects.

64. Water Filtration System: Design and test a water filtration system using various materials for purification.

65. Miniature Greenhouse Construction: Build a small-scale greenhouse with automated climate control for plant growth.

66. DIY Airplane Model : Construct and test various designs of paper airplanes for optimal flight performance.

67. Automated Home System: Develop a prototype of an automated system for home appliances or security.

68. DIY Electric Vehicle: Build a small-scale electric vehicle using simple motors and batteries.

69. Hydroponics Setup: Create a hydroponic system to grow plants without soil, testing different nutrient solutions.

70. Pneumatic or Hydraulic Arm: Design and build a robotic arm using pneumatic or hydraulic systems.

71. Magnetic Levitation Vehicle: Construct a vehicle that utilizes magnetic levitation for movement.

72. Smartphone App Development: Create a smartphone app for a specific purpose, like education or health monitoring.

73. 3D Printer Design and Test: Build a simple 3D printer and test its capabilities with various materials.

74. Rube Goldberg Machine: Construct a complex machine that completes a simple task in a convoluted way.

75. Remote-Controlled Car Modification: Modify a remote-controlled car to perform additional functions or tasks.

Mathematics Project Ideas

Here is a list of project ideas on Mathematics and it is as:

76. Fractal Generation: Create and explore fractal patterns using mathematical algorithms like the Mandelbrot set.

77. Probability in Games : Analyse probabilities in board games or card games to improve strategies.

78. Mathematics of Origami: Study geometric principles behind origami and create intricate designs.

79. Cryptology and Code Breaking: Explore encryption methods and create codes to decipher within a group.

80. Mathematical Modeling of Epidemics: Model the spread of diseases using mathematical equations and real data.

81. Optimization in Real Life : Optimise resources like time or materials in real-life scenarios, such as transportation routes.

82. Mathematics in Music: Analyse the mathematics behind musical scales, rhythms, or sound frequencies.

83. Geometry of Architecture: Study architectural designs through geometric shapes and symmetry.

84. Fibonacci Sequence in Nature: Explore the occurrence of the Fibonacci sequence in natural patterns like flower petals.

85. Graph Theory and Networks: Analyse social networks or transportation systems using graph theory concepts.

86. Mathematical Art : Create artistic designs based on mathematical patterns like tessellations or symmetry.

87. Mathematics of Sports : Analyse sports statistics, player performance, or game strategies using mathematical models.

88. Financial Mathematics: Explore concepts like compound interest, investments, or loan amortisation.

89. Mathematical Puzzle Creation: Invent and solve puzzles involving logic, algebra, or geometry for peers to solve.

90. Trigonometry in Real Life: Use trigonometric functions to solve real-world problems like navigation or architecture.

Technology Project Ideas

Given below is a list of project ideas based on technology are as:

91. Smart Home Automation System: Design and create a system to handle home appliances remotely or autonomously.

92. Internet of Things (IoT) Weather Station: Build a weather monitoring system using IoT devices to collect and display data.

93. Mobile App for Mental Health: Develop an app offering mental health support or stress management tools.

94. Drone Technology Application: Create a drone with a specific function, like aerial photography or delivery.

95. Virtual Reality (VR) Education: Develop educational VR content for learning various subjects or skills.

96. Cybersecurity Simulation Game : Design a game that teaches cybersecurity concepts and practices.

97. Biometric Security System: Build a biometric-based access control system using fingerprint or facial recognition.

98. AI-Powered Chatbot: Create a chatbot using AI to assist with customer service or provide information.

99. DIY Home Energy Monitoring: Build a device to monitor and track home energy consumption in real-time.

100. E-commerce Platform Development: Develop a platform for buying and selling goods or services online.

101. Augmented Reality (AR) Museum Guide: Create an AR app to guide users through a museum with additional information.

102. Robotics for Elderly Assistance: Develop a robot to assist the elderly with everyday tasks or companionship.

103. Blockchain-Based Voting System: Design a secure voting system using blockchain technology for transparency.

104. Health and Fitness Wearable: Create a wearable device that tracks health metrics and offers fitness guidance.

105. Green Technology Solutions: Develop technology for recycling, reducing waste, or sustainable energy production.

Social Sciences Project Ideas

Following are the project ideas related to Social Sciences:

106. Cultural Exchange Program Evaluation: Evaluate the impact of cultural exchange programs on participants’ perspectives and understanding.

107. Social Media Influence on Behaviour: Study how social media affects behaviour and mental health among different age groups.

108. Gender Representation in Media: Analyse media representations of gender and their impact on societal perceptions.

109. Community Needs Assessment Survey: Conduct a survey to identify and address the needs of a local community.

110. Effect of Music on Mood: Investigate how different genres of music influence emotions and behaviour.

111. Impact of Education on Economic Mobility: Analyse the correlation between education levels and economic mobility in a region.

112. Public Perception of Climate Change: Survey public perceptions and knowledge of climate change to inform awareness campaigns.

113. Political Opinion Polling: Conduct a poll to gauge public opinion on political issues or candidates.

114. Criminal Justice System Analysis: Study the effectiveness and fairness of the criminal justice system through case studies.

115. Migration Patterns and Integration: Analyse migration trends and the integration of immigrant communities in a specific area.

116. Socioeconomic Impact of Pandemics: Investigate the socioeconomic effects of pandemics on different demographic groups.

117. Impact of Social Programs: Evaluate the effectiveness of social welfare programs on poverty alleviation.

118. Urban Planning and Public Spaces: Study the design and utilisation of public spaces in urban environments.

119. Impact of Advertising on Consumer Behavior: Analyse how advertising influences consumer choices and purchasing habits.

120. Historical Analysis of Social Movements: Research and document the impact of historical social movements on society.

Health Science Project Ideas

Now we will discuss some of the project ideas related to Health Science and they are as:

121. Nutritional Analysis of Diets: Analyse and compare the nutritional content of different diets for health implications.

122. Exercise and Heart Rate Variability: Study the impact of exercise on heart rate variability among different age groups.

123. Effect of Sleep on Cognitive Function: Investigate how varying sleep durations affect cognitive performance and memory.

124. Analysis of Stress Management Techniques: Evaluate the effectiveness of different stress relief methods on mental health.

125. Public Health Campaign Evaluation: Assess the impact of public health campaigns on lifestyle changes and awareness.

126. Impact of Screen Time on Vision: Study the effects of prolonged screen time on eye health and vision.

127. Disease Prevention through Vaccination: Create educational materials on the importance of vaccinations in disease prevention.

128. Smoking Cessation Program Evaluation: Evaluate the effectiveness of smoking cessation programs on quitting rates.

129. Healthy Eating Intervention: Implement and assess the impact of a healthy eating intervention in a specific community.

130. Telemedicine and Patient Satisfaction: Investigate patient satisfaction and outcomes in telemedicine versus in-person consultations.

131. Mental Health Awareness Campaign: Design and execute a campaign to raise awareness about mental health issues.

132. Hydration and Physical Performance: Study the effects of hydration levels on athletic performance and recovery.

133. Maternal Health Program Impact: Evaluate the impact of maternal health programs on infant and maternal outcomes.

134. Chronic Disease Management Education: Develop educational resources for managing chronic diseases to improve patient outcomes.

135. Effects of Music Therapy on Pain: Analyse the impact of music therapy on pain management in healthcare settings.

Environmental Science Project Ideas

There are a numerous project ideas based on Environmental Science and some of them are listed below:

136. Waste Management Optimization: Design a system to optimize waste management practices in a local community.

137. Biodiversity Monitoring: Conduct a survey to assess biodiversity in a specific ecosystem and track changes over time.

138. Renewable Energy Feasibility Study: Analyze the potential for implementing solar or wind energy in a particular region.

139. Air Quality Monitoring: Measure air quality in different areas and study the factors influencing air pollution levels.

140. Effects of Pollution on Plant Growth: Investigate the impact of pollutants on plant health and growth.

141. Water Quality Assessment: Test water quality in various sources and assess contamination levels and purification methods.

142. Urban Heat Island Effect Study: Analyze temperature variations in urban areas and their ecological impacts.

143. Impact of Deforestation on Soil Erosion: Study the correlation between deforestation rates and soil erosion.

144. Plastic Pollution Reduction Initiative: Implement and evaluate a project aimed at reducing plastic waste in a community.

145. Carbon Footprint Analysis: Calculate and compare carbon footprints of different activities or industries.

146. Ecotourism Sustainable Practices: Evaluate the sustainability of ecotourism activities on local ecosystems.

147. Aquatic Ecosystem Restoration: Implement a project to restore a degraded aquatic ecosystem and monitor recovery.

148. Environmental Education Program: Develop educational materials to raise awareness about local environmental issues.

149. Impact of Climate Change on Wildlife: Study how climate change affects the habitats and behaviors of wildlife species.

150. Community Garden for Sustainability: Create a community garden to promote sustainable food production and education.

Aerodynamics Project Ideas

Following are the project ideas based on the Aerodynamics for a science fair:

151. Wing Design and Lift: Investigate different wing shapes to optimise lift and drag in wind tunnel experiments.

152. Paper Airplane Aerodynamics: Test and analyse various paper aeroplane designs for flight distance and stability.

153. Airfoil Performance Analysis: Study the performance of different airfoil shapes through computational simulations and wind tunnel tests.

154. Drag Reduction Techniques: Experiment with surface modifications to reduce drag on car models or other objects.

155. Parachute Design Optimization: Design and test parachutes to maximise descent rate control and stability.

156. Wind Turbine Efficiency: Analyse the efficiency of wind turbine blade designs for maximum energy extraction.

157. Fluid Flow around Cars: Investigate airflow patterns and turbulence around vehicle models for better aerodynamics.

158. Aircraft Propeller Design: Design and test propeller shapes to optimise thrust and efficiency in aircraft.

159. Supersonic vs. Subsonic Aerodynamics: Compare the aerodynamic characteristics of subsonic and supersonic airfoils .

160. Bird Flight Mechanisms: Study bird wing shapes and movements to understand aerodynamics in avian flight.

161. Kite Design and Stability: Experiment with kite designs to achieve stability and lift in varying wind conditions.

So now we have come to the end of this journey and we have discovered 150+ science fair project ideas among 11 different categories. Keep in mind that science projects are not just a part of academics, it pushes your creativity boundaries and makes you think out of the box.

A good project not only gets you good grades but also it shows what kind of a person you are and what character you own. It is not always about fancy things but it is more about the value it produces. 

You can choose any of the topics and ideas listed above and integrate it with your creativity and skills to make it a successful one with high value. Best of luck!

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Image that reads Space Place and links to spaceplace.nasa.gov.

Do a Science Fair Project!

How do you do a science fair project.

Cartoon of boy and girl doing experiment with small containers on table.

Ask a parent, teacher, or other adult to help you research the topic and find out how to do a science fair project about it.

Test, answer, or show?

Your science fair project may do one of three things:

Test an idea (or hypothesis.)

Answer a question.

Show how nature works.

Topic ideas:

Space topics:.

How do the constellations change in the night sky over different periods of time?

How does the number of stars visible in the sky change from place to place because of light pollution?

Learn about and demonstrate the ancient method of parallax to measure the distance to an object, such as stars and planets.

Study different types of stars and explain different ways they end their life cycles.

Earth topics:

Cross-section drawing of ocean at mouth 9of a river, with heavier saltwater slipping in under the fresh water.

How do the phases of the Moon correspond to the changing tides?

Demonstrate what causes the phases of the Moon?

How does the tilt of Earth’s axis create seasons throughout the year?

How do weather conditions (temperature, humidity) affect how fast a puddle evaporates?

How salty is the ocean?

Solar system topics:

Drawing of the solar system.

How does the size of a meteorite relate to the size of the crater it makes when it hits Earth?

How does the phase of the Moon affect the number of stars visible in the sky?

Show how a planet’s distance from the Sun affects its temperature.

Sun topics:

Observe and record changes in the number and placement of sun spots over several days. DO NOT look directly at the Sun!

Make a sundial and explain how it works.

Show why the Moon and the Sun appear to be the same size in the sky.

How effective are automobile sunshades?

Study and explain the life space of the sun relative to other stars.

Drawing of a science fair project display.

Pick a topic.

Try to find out what people already know about it.

State a hypothesis related to the topic. That is, make a cause-and-effect-statement that you can test using the scientific method .

Explain something.

Make a plan to observe something.

Design and carry out your research, keeping careful records of everything you do or see.

Create an exhibit or display to show and explain to others what you hoped to test (if you had a hypothesis) or what question you wanted to answer, what you did, what your data showed, and your conclusions.

Write a short report that also states the same things as the exhibit or display, and also gives the sources of your initial background research.

Practice describing your project and results, so you will be ready for visitors to your exhibit at the science fair.

Follow these steps to a successful science fair entry!

If you liked this, you may like:

Illustration of a game controller that links to the Space Place Games menu.

IMAGES

  1. 10 Awesome Science Fair Poster Board Ideas 2024

    science fair research paper ideas

  2. Sample research paper science fair project

    science fair research paper ideas

  3. Writing a Research Paper for Your Science Fair Project

    science fair research paper ideas

  4. What does a research paper look like for a science fair

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  5. Science Fair Project Paper Towel Strength

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VIDEO

  1. Science Fair Projects New Ideas 2023

  2. Science Fair Research and Citations

  3. Science Fair Projects Easy

  4. 10 science project ideas/ science fair projects/best science fair projects

  5. Science Fair: Creating A Question

  6. Research Paper Ideas For Business Students

COMMENTS

  1. Writing a Research Paper for Your Science Fair Project

    When you write your research paper you might want to copy words, pictures, diagrams, or ideas from one of your sources. It is OK to copy such information as long as you reference it with a citation. If the information is a phrase, sentence, or paragraph, then you should also put it in quotation marks. A citation and quotation marks tell the ...

  2. Science Fair Project Final Report

    Ideas for future research. Some science fairs want you to discuss what additional research you might want to do based on what you learned. Acknowledgments. This is your opportunity to thank anyone who helped you with your science fair project, from a single individual to a company or government agency.

  3. Writing a Science Fair Project Research Plan

    To make a background research plan — a roadmap of the research questions you need to answer — follow these steps: Identify the keywords in the question for your science fair project. Brainstorm additional keywords and concepts. Use a table with the "question words" (why, how, who, what, when, where) to generate research questions from your ...

  4. List of Science Fair Project Ideas

    The 'Ultimate' Science Fair Project: Frisbee Aerodynamics. Aerodynamics & Hydrodynamics. The Paper Plate Hovercraft. Aerodynamics & Hydrodynamics. The Swimming Secrets of Duck Feet. Aerodynamics & Hydrodynamics. The True Cost of a Bike Rack: Aerodynamics and Fuel Economy. Aerodynamics & Hydrodynamics.

  5. PDF Writing a Research Paper for Your Science Fair Project

    The purpose of your research paper is to give you the information to understand why your experiment turns out the way it does. The research paper should include: The history of similar experiments or inventions. Definitions of all important words and concepts that describe your experiment. Answers to all your background research plan questions.

  6. Science Fair Project Guide

    A science fair is an opportunity for students to do an independent science project following either the scientific method or the engineering design process. Students conduct their research then present their results at a science fair. Science fairs occur at different levels including classroom, school-wide, regional, state, and international.

  7. How to Write a Science Fair Project Report

    Pay attention to margins, avoid fonts that are difficult to read or are too small or too large, use clean paper, and make print the report cleanly on as good a printer or copier as you can. Your science fair project may require a lab report or essay. This is a general outline showing how to prepare a report to document your research.

  8. Writing a Science Project Report or Research Paper

    Your report should include a title page, statement of purpose, hypothesis, materials and procedures, results and conclusions, discussion, and credits and bibliography. If applicable, graphs, tables, or charts should be included with the results portion of your report. 2. Cause and effect. This is another common science experiment research paper ...

  9. PDF GSEF Student Guide- How to Do a Science Fair Project

    1. Get a bound notebook to use as a logbook and number the pages. 2. Select a topic. 3. Narrow the topic to a specific problem, stated as a research question, with a single variable. 4. Conduct a literature review of the topic and problem and write a draft of the research report. 5.

  10. How to Write a Convincing Science Fair Research Proposal

    Step-By-Step Guide to Creating a Research Proposal. 1. Narrow down the subject area. Before you go into your project in any sort of depth, you'll need a fairly good idea of what your project's focus will be. In order to narrow this down, you should consider a few different angles.

  11. PDF Research Paper Examples

    The research paper is an important part of any good STEM fair project. The research paper gives you an opportunity to learn more about your topic and should be closely related to the investigation you have chosen for STEM fair. The research paper is MANDATORY for anyone in grades four, five and six. The research paper is not complicated and ...

  12. 100 Science Topics for Research Papers

    How to Start Your Science Research Paper. Science papers are interesting to write and easy to research because there are so many current and reputable journals online. Start by browsing through the STEM research topics below, which are written in the form of prompts. Then, look at some of the linked articles at the end for further ideas.

  13. Science Project Research: 10 Engaging Ideas for your Fair!

    Now, let's explore some exciting and age-appropriate research-based science fair project ideas for elementary and middle school students: 1. The Effects of Light on Plant Growth: Explore how different types of light (natural sunlight, LED, incandescent) affect the growth of plants. Students can set up an experiment with identical plants and ...

  14. The Basics

    This science fair project guide published by Science Buddies can help you get started. This 15-minute animated video, by a young artist named Kevin Temmer, provides a great introduction to preparing for a science fair. Now that you know what to do, choose a topic and then: Research the topic. This means becoming a mini-expert on the topic.

  15. PDF Writing a Research Paper for Your Science Fair Project

    When you write your research paper you might want to copy words, pictures, diagrams, or ideas from one of your sources. It is OK to copy such information as long as you reference it with a citation. If the information is a phrase, sentence, or paragraph, then you should also put it in quotation marks. A citation and quotation marks tell the ...

  16. How to Do a Science Fair Project

    Get your idea and do some research. DIY Space: How to Do a Science Fair Project - Step 1. Watch on. Observe the world around you and ask questions about the things you observe. 2. Ask a testable question. DIY Space: How to Do a Science Fair Project - Step 2. Watch on. Develop your idea into a question you can test.

  17. The Big List of Science Fair Project Ideas, Resources, and More

    Animal Habitat Activities and Projects. Balloon Science Experiments and Projects. Climate Change Activities and Project Ideas. Electricity Experiments and Science Projects. Ocean Experiments, Projects, and Activities. Plant Life Cycle Projects and Experiments. Science Projects for Learning About Germs. Space Science Experiments and Activities.

  18. Science Fair/Term Paper Ideas for Creation vs. Evolution

    Science Fair/Term Paper Ideas for Creation vs. Evolution. Students of all ages frequently ask for ideas on how to tie in principles from RTB's testable creation model to their research projects. So I've compiled a list (with help from volunteer apologist Virginia Peterson, who researched links) to help get your creative juices flowing.

  19. List of Science Fair Ideas and Experiments You Can Do

    Remember, find something that interests you, and have fun with it. To download and print this list of ideas CLICK HERE. Here's a list of over 30 Science Fair ideas to get you started. Then download science experiments, and watch experiment videos to inspire your project.

  20. 25 Science Fair Project Ideas From Easy to Hard

    25 Science Projects Ideas From Easy to Hard. Science fairs can be invaluable experiences that help you explore a specific topic and also teach you the principles of scientific discovery. They also offer opportunities for you to showcase your creativity and can be a great springboard to further academic or career pursuits in STEM. An added bonus ...

  21. 50 of the Best Science Fair Project Ideas for Kids

    Find out with this science fair project that can be done with adult supervision, as it needs boiling water. 23. Craft your own thermos bottle and test it out for a project all about insulation. 24. Make a DIY thermometer and test it out for a practical and hands-on science project. 25.

  22. 150+ Interesting Science Fair Project Ideas [Updated 2024]

    Here are they: Physics Project Ideas. Following are the project ideas based on the Physics for a science fair: 1. Simple Pendulum Experiment: Looking into the factors affecting the period of a pendulum. 2. Newton's Laws of Motion Demonstrations: Conduct experiments to show Newton's three laws of motion. 3.

  23. Do a Science Fair Project!

    Your science fair project may do one of three things: test an idea (hypothesis), answer a question, and/or show how nature works. Ask a parent, teacher, or other adult to help you research the topic and find out how to do a science fair project about it.