Table of Contents

Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7-8 Page 8 -11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22-25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Letter to Parents and Guardians Timeline Scientific Method Journal Getting Started Topic Research Purpose and Hypothesis Materials Procedure Variables Data Graphing Analysis and Conclusion Abstract Report Display Board Technology/Engineering Projects (use pages 2-11 also) Oral Presentation Science Fair Rules Science Fair Rubric Technology and Engineering Rubric Sample topics
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Dear Parents and Guardians, Your child will be participating in the Revere Middle School Science Fair. This is a very exciting district event. The science fair gives your child an opportunity to explore beyond the classroom. He or she will investigate an approved scientific topic and become an expert in their chosen area. This is an opportunity to become involved in your childs learning, by being their guide or resource. This is your childs project; however, they do need your assistance. With your interest and support, your child can develop the skills and attitudes he or she needs to make this project a valuable experience. The final project should reflect your childs effort, design, and investigation. This handbook is to help you and your child to prepare for the science fair. Each page is filled with methods and processes for conducting an experiment. Please review this handbook with your child so that he or she understands the projects requirements. The goal of the science fair is to allow the child to explore, investigate, and stimulate curiosity about the world. Please feel free to contact me or your childs teacher with further questions or concerns. Sincerely,

Science Fair Timeline

Date Requirement
Topic Ideas TOPIC Sources 10 Journal entries At this point you should be drafting your research paper! ROUGH DRAFT research paper (annotated bibliography is a type of research paper) Final Draft Research paper Purpose, Hypothesis, Materials, Procedure, and Variables At this point you should be conducting the experiment and collecting data. Data tables and graphs (quantitative data only) Analysis and Conclusion At this point you should be assembling your 3-sided display board. 10 more journal entries Science Fair due! Report, Display, Oral Presentation! April 4, 2013 District Science Fair at SBA May 4, 2013 Regional Fair at UMass Lowell June 1, 2013 at Worcester State Fair Technical High School

Grade

Check when completed

Determined by your teacher

The Scientific Method

All scientists follow a process that guides an experiment. The scientific method guides you through your project by providing steps to follow. Step 1 - Think of an idea. This part is when you select your topic. Step 2 - Research your topic. Utilize the public library, school library, internet and other resources to gather background information. Step 3 - Plan your experiment Create your step by step process to conduct the experiment. Form a hypothesis. Determine your variables. Step 4 - Conduct the experiment. This is when you will actually perform the test. Step 5 - Collect and record data. Be sure to record all of your observations. o A quantitative observation is an observation made with measurement instruments. Make tables, graphs, pie charts, etc. o A qualitative observation is an observation taken by using your senses. Use a table to record your data, you cannot create a graph with these types of observations Step 6 - State your conclusions. Explain what you learned from the experiment, how could it be improved, and list the questions you have as a result of the experiment.

The Journal
The journal is a log of all that you do when working on the science fair. Each entry should be dated and describe the work that was done.

The journal should be done in a bound notebook, such as a composition notebook. Do not tear out pages or erase. Most scientists learn from their mistakes, so leave them. The lab report should also be in the journal, including any notes or ideas you encounter as you complete the experiment. Data should be collected in the journal then organized in your final report.

Getting Started
Getting started may seem overwhelming, but all you need is a good idea. Tips for selecting a topic: o The best topic is one in which you are genuinely interested. o Think about all of the resources around you. Parents, relatives, friends, teachers, and neighbors can help you come up with ideas. o Talk to people who work in careers in science such as nurses, engineers, and research scientists. Talk to anybody who is involved in the professional community. o Observe the world around you. Why do things happen the way they do? o Read, read, and read some more! Browse through textbooks, magazines, newspapers, and the internet. Select a category place checks in the categories that you find interesting.

Agriculture-farming concerns Astronomy- study of celestial bodies Biology- living things Ecology- relationships of living things Food Science (ingestion is not allowed) Zoology- animals Chemistry- substances and how they change Earth Science- parts of the earth Engineering- apply scientific knowledge for practical purposes Mathematics- numbers and symbols to study amounts and forms Physics- motion and energy
o Ask questions such as What if or Why does or How come o Check the internet, the websites below are helpful! http://www.massscifair.com/high-school-fair/resources/default.aspx http://www.sciencebuddies.org/science-fair-projects/project_ideas.shtml

http://school.discoveryeducation.com/sciencefaircentral/ Once your topic has been approved it is time to begin your research.
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Selecting My Topic
Brainstorm some topics(or categories from the previous page) you like to study in science
1.

6.

2.

6 science ideas I like

5.

(or would like to learn more about).

3.

4.

Pick 3 from above. How could you test something about that idea? What would you like to change or modify about it?

Now have some conversations with family, friends, or teachers that will guide you to select your topic.
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My Topic
Topic Statement- State your topic clearly. Identify the condition you plan on changing. The effect of ___ on ___. My topic-

Copy this into your journal

Research
It is extremely important to gather background information before you make a hypothesis. You should look for information about your topic in encyclopedias, newspapers, magazines, or on the internet, additional resources could be teachers, parents, scientists, or other professionals. Be sure to keep a record of all your sources. Record each source in your journal. Your research paper is an in-depth study of your topic with the objective of expressing a purpose. Your success in the science fair is dependent upon your understanding of your topic. The more information you gather, the broader your understanding of the topic.

FOCUS YOUR RESEARCH

My topicWhich category of science? In the boxes below write information you should research about your topic and ideas that could affect your topic.

Copy this into your journal

For Example: My topic- The effect of body design on the speed of a balloon powered car Which category of science? engineering, physics In the boxes below write information you should research about your topic and ideas that could affect your topic. Automotive design Motion Energy Forces such as thrust, drag, lift, and speed and acceleration kinetic and potential gravity

NOBLE is a service for research sharing, it is a network of 28 area libraries. So you can get information online from local libraries on your computer at school, home, just about anywhere! Start at: http://www.noblenet.org/

Make Research EASY!

Click

Now select EBSCOHost Research Databases

Your library card has a bar code on the back. EBSCOhost will ask for that barcode. If you do not have a library card, then use the RPS library card:

26661000604248

Now select the databases you would like to search. Start with the encyclopedia, then expand your search.

Print articles using the MLA Citation. Keep these copies for your records.

Copy this into your journal

entry.

It is a good idea to copy the citation and summary into your journal, each can be a separate

When gathering your sources it is important to record all information. You need to give credit where credit is due. How to cite a source (Bibliography) in MLA format Book Authors Last Name, First Name. Title. City published: Publisher, Copyright date. Encyclopedia Authors Last Name, First Name. Title of Article. Title of Book. Edition: Page Numbers. City Published: Publisher, Copyright date. Website Authors Last Name, First Name. Title of Article. Title of Website. Last Update. Publisher. Date Visited. <URL>. Magazine Authors Last Name, First Name. Title of Article. Title of Magazine. Date of Publication: Page Numbers. Interview Last Name, First Name. Interview Type. Location. Date (day, month, year) Your teacher will decide the amount of pages expected in your research paper, or if they would like a literature review instead.

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Be sure to use only your words, use quotes for phrases or sentences from the author of the article. Book
Authors Last Name, First Name. Title. City published: Publisher, Copyright date.

Summarize a source here:

Write a summary in this space 8 bullets = good source

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Problem
The problem, or sometimes called the purpose, is why you are doing the experiment. What do you hope to learn? The problem can be a statement or it can be expressed as a question about what you are trying to find out. The problem is the foundation of your entire project! Hints Limit your experiment to test only one independent variable. Choose an experiment you can measure, or quantify.

Copy this into your journal

Problem-

Hypothesis
The hypothesis is created after you have done some extensive research. The hypothesis is an educated guess based on your topic. It is a prediction about the results of your experiment. Make a prediction, determine your opinion, and think about your expected results.

If this (independent) then the (dependent).

Copy this into your journal
Use the space below to write your hypothesis, remember the format. If ___ then ___.

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Materials
List all of the items you will need to conduct the experiment. Ask your science teacher for advice or to borrow scientific tools or equipment. **Note** do not include the supplies needed to create the display board, ONLY the items needed to conduct the experiment.

Copy this into your journal

List the materials you will need to conduct the experiment:

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Procedure
The procedure is a process that numerically lists each step taken to complete the experiment. Be sure to be specific, do not skip steps.

Copy this into your journal

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An experiment creates a situation in which a condition is changed. It is extremely important to plan your experiment and control how it is conducted. After you complete your procedure it is helpful to take a test run. In this way you can work out the problems you encounter before the actual experiment is conducted. There are two types of variables: the independent and dependent variable; also consider your constants and groups.

Variables

o The independent variable, sometimes is referred to as the manipulated variable. The independent variable is the condition you change on purpose; this alteration will cause something else to happen. o The dependent variable, sometimes called the responding variable, is what happens as a result of the change. In other words, it is the response to the changed condition.

Copy this into your journal

My Independent Variable-

My Dependent Variable-

o The constants all the conditions that must be My Constantskept the same so that the results are reliable. This sometimes called the variable held constant or the controls The Experimental Group- is the group that will receive the independent variable. (at least 3 members per group) The Control Group- The group that receives all of the same conditions as the experimental group EXCEPT the independent variable (at least 3 members per group). The control group is your standard for comparison.

YOUR EXPERIMENT SHOULD ONLY TEST ONE INDEPENDENT VARIABLE. TESTING TOO MANY CHANGED FACTORS WILL NOT GIVE YOU RELIABLE DATA.

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Collecting data is a very important part of your experiment. There are two types of observations in data collection. o Qualitative observations are based on your senses. These types of observations are made with words; they are descriptive and not graphed. If you collect data based on qualitative observations, it is best to organize this information into a table. o Quantitative observations are based on measurements. These observations are recorded by using scientific tools such as rulers, timers, scales, and balances. This type of data should include a graph or pie chart.

Data

The type of data I am collecting is

Copy this into your journal

In order for an experiment to be accepted as valid it must be tested several times. It is suggested that you test your experiment at least 3 times. If you are testing humans you must conduct at least 20 individual trials. The amount of trials I will conduct

Trials

Copy this into your journal

Example of a data table: A data table is a chart that organizes information into columns and rows. All tables should have a title; if you have measurements be sure to include the units of measurement.

Distance Traveled in 20 Seconds

Independent Variable Distance Traveled Trial 1 (cm) 100 Trial 2 (cm) 86 Trial 3 (cm) 90 Average (cm) 92

Copy this into your journal

Sketch a data table in your journal, how many rows and columns will it have? Did you title each row or column?

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Graphing data is a way of showing how the two variables are related, or the relationship between the independent and dependent variables. The X-axis of a graph is generally the independent variable; the Y-axis of a graph is generally the dependent variable. Data can also be shown in a pie chart.

Graphing

This is a great website that will help you create a graph: http://nces.ed.gov/nceskids/createagraph/

Copy this into your journal

Check Type of the observations box My data contains numbers *organize data into a table *create a graph

Requirement(s) Data table AND Graph

for example:

My data contains words- no graph required

Just a data table, for example:

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Now that you have completed the experiment and collected data it is time to analyze your results. To analyze means to examine, evaluate, compare, and relate all the data. Explain why things happened the way they did. Sometimes the data supports the hypothesis and sometimes it disproves the hypothesis. In either case you have learned so much that you have become an expert on your topic. Review your results and begin to formulate a conclusion.

Analysis

Copy this into your journal

A lab from your teacher has analysis questions. Write yourself 5 questions about your topic that use the words: analyze, compare, contrast, examine, distinguish, infer, inspect, categorize, simplify, classify Analysis questions for my science fair experiment: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

The conclusion explains what you have learned from the experiment. Address improvements for the experiment or changes for the future. Discuss questions that you now have as a result of this experiment. In this paragraph you should draw relationships between the experiment and the world you live in.

Conclusion

Copy this into your journal

A lab from your teacher has conclusion questions. Write yourself 5 questions about your topic that use the words: solve, discuss, improve, design, formulate, predict, modify, elaborate, propose, change, adapt Conclusion questions for my science fair experiment: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.
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Abstract
The abstract is a mini version of your experiment. It gives the judge or reader a quick overview of your entire experiment. He or she should be able to read it quickly and have a good understanding of your purpose, procedure, and results and conclusion. Your abstract should include the following: ____ Name ____ School ____ Grade ____ Age ____ Category (type of science) SUMMARIZE each of the following in a paragraph: ____ Purpose ____ Procedure ____ Results and Conclusion
Abstract The Effect of Orange Juice on Tomato Plants Name Category: Biology Revere Middle School Grade 7 Age 12

Purpose The purpose of this experiment is to grow plants higher in vitamin C by using orange juice. For some people it is difficult to take a daily vitamin, however, they may get their daily dose of vitamin C through a tomato. Procedure First I planted many tomato seeds. After they germinated the plants were divided into groups. Group A received no treatment, just water. Group B received the treatment of orange juice. After several weeks I observed their growth. Results and Conclusions From this experiment I can conclude that feeding a tomato plant orange juice is not a good source of vitamin C. The acidity of the orange juice ended the growth of tomato plants and did not yield tomatoes with higher levels of vitamin C.

Copy this into your journal

Purpose (problem)

Abstract Summarize each of the following Procedure

Results and conclusion

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The Report
The report is the most important part of your project; it documents all of your work. The following is a SUGGESTED guideline for completing the report. Your teacher may want it in a different order; they can give you that information.

The Report:
Page 1 Title Page- Topic and Name(s) Page 2 Table of contents- List what the reader will find on each page. Page 3 Abstract- Summary of purpose, procedure (and hypothesis), results and conclusion. Page 4 Introduction- Sets the stage for your report. It should contain a statement of your purpose, along with some background information, hypothesis based on your research. Page 5 and 6 Lab Report- Purpose, Hypothesis, Materials, Procedure, Variables, Data, Analysis and Conclusion. Page 7-9 or 10 Research paper and Bibliography- Number of pages will be determined by your science teacher. Page 11 Acknowledgements- A brief paragraph stating the names of people who helped you and a brief description of their contribution.

Title Page

Table of Contents

Abstract

Introduction

Lab Report

Lab Report (if necessary)

Research Paper

Research Paper

Research Paper

Acknowledgements

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The number of pages of research is determined by your science teacher.

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The Display Board

The display board is a glorified lab report!!! Thats it!!! Dont stress over this part . . . it should be the easiest! You already completed the lab report in your final report.

Problem

Title
ProcedureVariables

Data and Graphs

Analysis Conclusion

Hypothesis Materials

Pictures
if any!

Your teacher may allow you to create a power point, in place of the display board. You may use the smart board for your presentation. This will save you time and money, but be sure to ask your teacher first! If you move on to the district, regional, or state fair, a display board is required. You can print up the slides of your power point and glue them to the display board.

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Technology or Engineering Project

You may opt to do a technology or engineering project instead of the typical experimental project. These projects have their own grading rubric. These types of projects can be very successful at the science fair, however they are not set up like the typical project. You will have to come up with an idea or topic first. This is the problem you are trying to solve. Second, complete your research. The difference is evident in your next step. You will NOT make a hypothesis or procedure; instead, you will list the possible solutions to your problem. Then select the best possible solution, followed by a prototype which is a mini model. Next, test and evaluate the product and formulate a conclusion. Finally you will redesign the project and consider how you will make it better. Example Technology/Engineering Projects: Testing bridge design Testing materials of one type of bridge Earthquake proof structures Invention Improving an invention Energy producing structures

Copy this into your journal

Need- What are you building, trying to solve, or make better?

Copy this into your journal

Possible solutions- develop many solutions to your need. Sketch them in the spaces below Possible solution 1 Possible solution 2 Possible solution 3 Possible solution 4

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Copy this into your journal

Best Possible Solution- Select the solution that would solve the need the best. This can be an original design, OR you can select parts of your possible solutions and develop the best possible. Include drawings Orthographic- flat non-dimensional views of the top, front, and side Isometric- 3 dimensional drawing of the object Best Possible Solution

Orthographic

Isometric

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Copy this into your journal

Prototype- Build your best possible solution. Include pictures, diagrams, mini model, etc. Take pictures!

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Test and Evaluate- Now test your prototype(s) Include table, charts, and graphs Create a table below to record your results:

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Conclusion- Describe how your best possible solution met your need. Explain the impact it will/would have on society. Write yourself 5 questions about your topic that use the words: Solve, discuss, improve, design, formulate, predict, modify, elaborate, propose, change, adapt Conclusion questions for my science fair experiment: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Copy this into your journal

Redesign- If you were to improve on your design what would you do to make it better? Explain. Make a list of ways you would improve the design of your best possible solution.

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The Display Board for Technology/Engineering Projects

Dont stress over this part . . . it should be the easiest! You already completed the lab report in your final report.

Need Research Possible Solutions

Title
Best Possible Solution
Orthographic and Isometric Drawings

Test and Evaluate

Conclusion

Your teacher may allow you to create a power point, in place of the display board. You may use the smart board for your presentation. This will save you time and money, but be sure to ask your teacher first! If you move on to the district, regional, or state fair, a display board is required. You can print up the slides of your power point and glue them to the display board.

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Oral Presentation
The final step in the science fair is developing your oral presentation. You should practice your presentation so that it goes smoothly in the classroom. Be sure to mention: 1. Introduce yourself (and partner if you have one) 2. Your title 3. Tell why you picked the topic. 4. Go through your research. Mention anything that the listener may not know about the topic. Assume they know nothing about your topic. 5. Begin to go through the lab report from the purpose, to the analysis and conclusion. 6. When you are talking about your data, be sure to explain your graphs and the relationship shown. 7. State your conclusion! 8. Explain your exhibit materials such as models, plants etc. Demonstrate if appropriate. 9. Ask if they have any questions. 10. Thank them for their time and interest. Oral PresentationIn the space below prepare what you will say to your teacher (judges)

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Science Fair Rules

Safety first! No experiments should be consumed by eating or drinking. Be careful of small pieces and be careful with any chemicals you may use. General Chemical Safety Eyes- Rinse immediately with water. Remove contact lenses if any; flush eyes with water for 15 minutes. Swallowed- Rinse mouth. Drink a glass of water or milk. Do not make yourself vomit. Skin- Flush skin thoroughly with water. If an emergency exists get immediate medical attention. The following are a list of items that CANNOT be used in the Revere Middle School Science Fair. Carcinogenic or mutagenic chemicals Radioactive materials Explosive materials Highly toxic chemicals High voltage equipment Ionizing radiation, X-rays, nuclear energy or lasers Hazardous substances or devices Nonhuman vertebrae animals Pathogenic agents Controlled substances Blood products or Recombinant DNA Compressed gas Open flame All projects must conform to Massachusetts State Science Fair Safety Regulations (Available at http://www.scifair.com/).

If the Science Fair Safety Committee determined that the project is not safe it will not be allowed.

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The Rubric
Science Fair Judges Rubric
Requirement Scientific Approach a. Purpose and Hypothesis b. Order and logical setup c. Consistent Conclusions Knowledge of Project Area a. Preliminary Research b. Knowledge of related material c. Scopes and limitations Thoroughness a. Sufficient Research b. Data and Observations c. Success of original plan Written Records and Report a. Journal b. Complete Report c. Correct Order of Pages Ingenuity and Creativity a. Clear Explanation b. Use of Materials c. Unique ideas Visual Presentation a. Organized b. Correct placement c. Oral presentation

Possible Points
(10) (10) (5) (5) (5) (5) (5) (5) (5) (10) (10) (5) (4) (3) (3) (3) (3) (4)

Points Earned

25

15

15

25

10

10 100

Total

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Science Fair Engineering Rubric

Technology/Engineering Judges Rubric
Requirement Identify the Need or Problem Research the Need a. Research b. Other Options Develop Possible Solutions a. Possible solutions b. Draw on math and Sci c. Articulate in 2D and 3D d. Journal and Lab Select best possible solution Prototype Test and Evaluate a. Work b. Original design Communicate the solution a. Presentation a. Societal impact b. Display Redesign

Possible Points 10
(5) (5) (5) (5) (5) (5)

Points Earned

10 20

10 20
(5) (5) (4) (3) (3)

10 10 10 100

Total

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Sample Science Fair Topics

What Effect Does the Physical Form of a Fertilizer Have on Plant Growth? What Effect Does Talcum Powder Have as an Insecticide? How Effective Are Sun Shadows for Telling time? What Effect Does a Glucose Solution Have on the Longevity of Cut Flowers? What Effect Des the Color of Light Have on Phototropism? What Effect Does the Position of Artificial Light Have on Plant Growth? How Does Exposure to Time to Microwaves Affect Seed Germination? How Does the Amount of Water in a Gel Affect Its Flexibility? What Effect Does Light Have on the Rate of Planarian Regeneration? What Effect Does Regular Physical Exercise Have on the Lungs Vital Capacity? What Effect Does Gender Have on the Stroop Test Color Recognition Response Time? How Does Music Affect Short Term Memory What Effect Does Surface Area Have on the Evaporation Rate of Water? What Effect Does Surface Texture Have on Growing Crystals What Effect Does Temperature Have on the Density of Liquids? What Effect Does the Type of Ground Cover Have on the Rate of Soil Erosion? How Does Density Affect the Buoyancy of Objects? How Does Mass Affect the Period of a Pendulum? How Can Water be Purified at Home? What is the Effect of Vitamin-Deficient Environment on Planarian What is the Effect of Different Soil Types on Plant Growth? How Does Acid Rain Affect Seed Germination? What is the Effect of Salt Versus Sugar on Plant Growth? What Type of Insulation Holds In Heat the Best? What Effect does Ultraviolet Light have on the Germination rates of Seeds? What is the Effect of Electricity on Plant Growth? What is the Effect of Different Types of Music Have on Memory? What Effect Does Gender Have on Memory? What Effect Does Age Have on Memory? What Effect Does Root Position Have on Plant Growth? What Effect Does Light Source Have on Plant Growth? What Effect Does Gender Have on Reaction Time? What Effect Does Age Have on Reaction Time? How Does Talking on the Telephone Have on Reaction Time? What are the Effects of Different Types of Practice Have on Learning Rates? What Effect Does Temperature Have on the Rate at Which Materials Dissolve? What is the Effect of Particle Size on the Rate of Solute Dissolution?

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